Underwater cycling classes offered
Hydrorider aqua cycling is an activity that’s new to the Miami Valley and offered exclusively at the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Dodge Fitness Center in Area A.
Using the Dodge Fitness Center indoor pool, 12 stationary Hydrorider aqua bikes are lowered into four feet of water for morning and lunchtime aqua cycling classes. These classes are free and available to individuals with base access.
“Aqua cycling is a total-body workout but a low-impact activity,” said Lori Garrett, Dodge Fitness Center manager. “The water supports the body, relieving pressure on the joints. This type of workout is ideal for the large retiree population at WrightPatt who may be seeking a lowrisk exercise routine.”
For 45 minutes, cyclists are in the water, strengthening their legs, back, core and even arms. After a warm-up, cyclists follow their instructor but move at their own pace.
The benefits of aqua cycling also appeal to physical therapy patients. As a cyclist pushes the bike pedals, the resistance of the water massages their leg muscles.
“You’re using the water and your body as the weights to get the benefit out of the class,” said Garrett.
However, what may seem like a soothing exercise can intensify. It all depends on how hard the cyclist is pedaling.
The Hydrorider instructors at Dodge Fitness Center welcome people with all levels of cycling and athletic experience.
“You can be new in the class; you can be experienced; you can be very physically fit or not,” said Garrett.
All exercise equipment is provided by the center, but Garrett says that participants should wear a swimsuit or spandex, along with swim shoes.
Classes are offered Mondays at 6:30 a.m. and Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. on a first-come, first-served basis, due to the limited number of Hydrorider bikes. During the fall season, Dodge Fitness Center will hold an evening class for individuals who want to participate after work hours.
For more information about aqua cycling, call Dodge Fitness Center at 937-257-4225.