Zumba workout undiluted by underwater movement

‘Just add water and shake" is the slogan for Aqua Zumba, held Mondays at the Punahou Fitness Center, in the saltwater pool.

Casually known as the "pool party," it integrates aquatic fitness disciplines with Zumba’s Latin-inspired dance moves.

The class I attended was women only. We splashed around, doing squats, kicks, leg lifts and arm exercises. And there was lots of booty shaking going on. The nice part was you could be as silly as you liked and nobody could really see what you were doing. You’re up to your chest or shoulders in the water, so if you just smile, you’ll look great.

Many participants were enjoying the music and doing their own thing. It’s a good option if you feel self-conscious about following rigid dance routines.

The water provides resistance during the exercises. Instructor K. Joy Pohl maintained an upbeat and animated attitude throughout the class. She stood on the pool deck so participants could get a clear view of what she was doing, and she emphasized the push-and-pull motions of the dance moves we were doing underwater.

The low-impact aqua class, which includes jumping, dancing and running in place, is much easier on the joints because it’s done in water. It didn’t feel jerky like typical Zumba dance moves.

Doing squats in the water is extremely easy compared with doing them on land. Maybe if we’d done more exercises that required treading or pulling water, it would have seemed more strenuous. Pohl insists it’s a challenging workout, even though it seems less taxing compared with land exercises.

"The water keeps you cool; you’re not dealing with the sweat rolling off," she said. "The water provides resistance, so if the arms are kept underwater, it provides a better workout."

It’s a good idea to wear a supportive swimsuit since there is a lot of jumping and shimmying going on. I also wish I’d worn water shoes to help with footing on the bottom of the pool and to prevent rubbing on the soles of my feet. Besides that, all you need is a towel and some drinking water to keep hydrated.

If you’re haven’t exercised in a while, are overweight or recovering from an injury, Aqua Zumba may be a perfect choice to get moving. If you’re younger or lead an active lifestyle, it’s a funky, alternative workout that can tone both the upper and lower body. I was smiling or laughing during most of the class.

Afterward, many participants visited the sauna, steam room, whirlpool and ice-plunge pool to complement the session. Fitness classes are included in the fees for use of the facility.

Other group exercise classes at Punahou Fitness Center include land-based Zumba, cardio and conditioning workouts, yoga and tai chi, and salsa aerobics.

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“Tryouts” features exercise and wellness classes and other fitness activities. Reach Nancy Arcayna at narcayna@staradvertiser.com or call 529-4808.