A unique class is making a splash in New York City. AQUA, an underwater cycling class, is the first of its kind in New York and the only location in the U.S. Founded by Esther Gauthier, AQUA provides an even lower-impact workout than traditional indoor cycling, due to the buoyancy the water provides. And people are clamoring to take it. In fact, New York City’s AQUA class has a waiting list.
Master AQUA Trainer Emmanuelle Galland isn’t surprised the class has been well received, for a multitude of reasons. “For one, guests are exposed to buoyancy, not gravity and hydrostatic pressure,” she explained. “So the forces on the bike and the body are different than when on land.”
In addition, participants can experience a lower resting heart rate and extreme caloric burn. “Aquacycling requires greater core mobilization to power the legs and burns up to 800 calories per hour,” said Galland.
Currently, only instructors that work at AQUA can teach the underwater cycling class. However, that could soon change. “We have received so much interest in Aquacycling and AQUA’s specific program from all kinds of investors and potential partners, that we are looking into all the different possibilities,” said Galland. “At this stage, everything is possible. What we know for sure is that we will be offering Aquacycling and open[ing] more locations across the country in the near future.”
According to Galland, those interested in being certified or opening up a studio can e-mail info@aquastudiony.com to learn how to become involved.
In addition to a one-of-kind fitness experience, the ambience of AQUA’s New York studio is nothing to balk at. Brick walls add character, and pristine locker rooms welcome participants before and after the workout. If you’re ever in New York, you may want to consider trying to snag a bike, and put your legs to good use. That is, if you can make it off the waiting list.
Video courtesy of GetFitNY.Tv.
Rachel Zabonick is the assistant editor for Club Solutions Magazine. She can be reached at rachel@clubsolutionsmagazine.com. Reach out to her about exciting events or programs your club has implemented, or to share the amazing accomplishments of a member.
