Creating interesting class plans for deep water can be a challenge. Melissa Cameron and Stacey Dolliver reveal how doubling up on equipment can also double the fun.
Do you find it challenging to devise creative deep water aqua class plans? Or are you looking for the inspiration to get your participants out of the shallow and moving in the deep?
Designing routines that can be effectively adapted using an assortment of equipment is a simple way of increasing variety in your classes.
The following sequence presents creative and motivating choreography that demonstrates how similar movements can be performed in a deep water class using different pieces of equipment, for example; belts to noodles (belts to dumbbells also works well).
The following sequence was choreographed to the track Valerie.
| Musical element | Move | Belts | Noodles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verse | Arm combination (rhythm – 2 curls at full tempo and 1 at half tempo) | Begin with legs stretched below and feet crossed, arms by the sides, palms facing forward (photo 1). Keeping elbows by the sides, raise hands towards the pool surface, into a bicep curl (photo 2) and return arms to starting position. | Begin with the noodle behind the body, holding it with fingers facing forward, legs stretched below and feet crossed. Perform a tricep dip action with the noodle (photos 7 & 8). |
| Pre-chorus | Jogging with opposite hand to knee (rhythm – 3 knee touches and hold on the 4th count) | Perform a jogging action with the legs and touch opposite hand to knee, placing emphasis on the scoop towards the knee (photos 3 & 4). | Place noodle around the lower back. Perform a jogging action with the legs and touch knee with opposite noodle, placing emphasis on the scoop towards the knee (photos 9 & 10). |
| Chorus | Wide leg double flick with single tuck | Extend legs wide and flick feet twice, then tuck both knees and arms to chest (photos 5 & 6). | Place noodle around the lower back. Extend legs wide and flick feet twice, then tuck both knees and arms to chest (photos 11 & 12). |
As with all new choreography and routines, it is recommended that you jump into the pool and practice the moves prior to instructing them from the poolside in order to truly appreciate the best way of incorporating them into your class.
Melissa Cameron
Melissa represents youthful energy and innovation in her diverse roles in the aquatic fitness industry. As business manager and lecturer for Water Exercise Training Service (WETS), Melissa demonstrates commitment to forging strong pathways for aquatic fitness in all facets of the industry. Melissa has significantly contributed to the development of the WETS Aqua Instructor, Aquatic PT and Aqua Wellness training programs.
Stacey Dolliver, BA
A popular and well regarded fitness professional and presenter, Stacey taps into her blend of energy and enthusiasm to promote wellness for people at every age and stage of life. As manager of the fitness centre at the Royal Hobart Hospital and co-owner of Freedom Health & Wellness, Stacey connects with people of all ages, cultures and demographics.
