Aquafit: Essential Swimwear, Footwear, and Accessories

What Do You Wear to Aquafit?

When preparing for an Aquafit class, the optimal attire prioritizes comfort, freedom of movement, and safety in a water environment, primarily consisting of appropriate swimwear and water-specific footwear.

The Essentials: Swimwear

Your choice of swimwear is paramount for an effective and comfortable Aquafit session. Unlike leisurely swimming, Aquafit involves dynamic movements, jumps, and resistance exercises, necessitating specific considerations.

• For Women:

  • One-Piece Swimsuits: Often the preferred choice due to their secure fit. Look for athletic designs with built-in bust support, similar to a sports bra, to minimize movement during jumping and high-impact exercises.
  • Two-Piece Swimsuits (Tankinis/Sport Bikinis): If opting for a two-piece, ensure the top offers robust support (e.g., racerback, wide straps, underwire if preferred) and the bottoms are secure and won't ride up. Sport-specific tankinis that provide coverage and stay in place are ideal.
  • Material: Prioritize swimwear made from chlorine-resistant fabrics like polyester or PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) blends. These materials retain their shape and color much better than traditional nylon/spandex blends, which can degrade quickly in chlorinated water.
  • Fit: The swimsuit should be snug enough to prevent drag and excessive movement but not so tight as to restrict breathing or range of motion.

• For Men:

  • Swim Trunks/Jammers: Board shorts can create too much drag and hinder movement. Shorter-leg swim trunks or jammers (knee-length compression shorts) made from polyester or PBT blends are superior choices. They offer less resistance, allow for greater leg mobility, and dry faster.
  • Fit: Similar to women's swimwear, a secure but comfortable fit is crucial to avoid chafing or excessive water retention.

Footwear for Water Fitness

While some participants may go barefoot, specialized water footwear significantly enhances safety, comfort, and performance in an Aquafit class.

• Water Shoes or Aqua Socks: These are highly recommended.

  • Grip: They provide essential traction on wet pool decks and the pool bottom, reducing the risk of slips and falls, especially during dynamic movements.
  • Protection: They shield your feet from rough pool surfaces, stray debris, or potential fungal infections.
  • Comfort: They can prevent blistering or discomfort from repetitive foot movements against the pool floor.
  • Types: Look for lightweight, quick-drying options with non-slip rubber soles. They come in various styles, from slip-on aqua socks to more structured water shoes with adjustable straps or laces.

• What to Avoid: Regular athletic shoes will become waterlogged and heavy. Flip-flops or sandals offer no support or grip in the water.

Optional but Recommended Accessories

To further enhance your Aquafit experience, consider these additional items:

• Swim Cap: Keeps hair out of your face, reduces chlorine exposure to hair, and can help maintain body temperature, especially in cooler pools.
• Goggles: If you have sensitive eyes or if the class involves exercises where water might splash into your face, goggles can provide comfort and allow you to keep your eyes open.
• Water Bottle: Even though you're in water, you'll sweat and need to stay hydrated. Keep a water bottle easily accessible on the pool deck.
• Towel: A quick-drying towel for post-class.
• Robe or Cover-up: Convenient for walking to and from the changing rooms.
• Ear Plugs/Nose Clip: If you are sensitive to water in your ears or nose, these can provide comfort.

What to Avoid Wearing

Certain materials and items are counterproductive or unsafe for Aquafit:

• Cotton Apparel: Cotton absorbs water, becoming heavy, restrictive, and taking a long time to dry. It can also harbor bacteria and contribute to chafing. Avoid cotton t-shirts, shorts, or underwear.
• Heavy Jewelry: Rings, necklaces, bracelets, and large earrings can snag, break, or cause injury to yourself or others. They can also corrode in chlorinated water.
• Street Clothes: Regular clothes are not designed for water immersion and will become waterlogged, heavy, and uncomfortable.
• Slippery Footwear: Any footwear without adequate grip (e.g., regular sandals, flip-flops) poses a significant slip hazard on wet surfaces.

Pre- and Post-Class Considerations

Beyond your attire, a few practical steps ensure a smooth Aquafit experience:

• Hydration: Drink water before, during, and after class. Despite being immersed in water, your body still sweats and loses fluids.
• Pre-Shower: Many facilities require a quick rinse shower before entering the pool for hygiene purposes.
• Post-Class Rinse: Shower thoroughly after class to remove chlorine from your skin and hair.
• Bag Essentials: Pack a separate wet bag or plastic bag for your damp swimwear and towel.

Why Attire Matters in Aquafit

The specific recommendations for Aquafit attire are not merely suggestions; they are rooted in principles of exercise science, biomechanics, and safety:

• Performance Enhancement: Appropriate swimwear and footwear reduce drag, allowing for more efficient and powerful movements against water resistance. This maximizes the workout's effectiveness.
• Safety: Non-slip footwear prevents falls on wet surfaces. Snug-fitting swimwear avoids entanglement or obstruction of movement.
• Comfort and Focus: When your attire is comfortable and stays in place, you can fully concentrate on the exercises and your body's movements without distraction.
• Hygiene and Durability: Chlorine-resistant fabrics and quick-drying materials contribute to better hygiene and extend the lifespan of your Aquafit wardrobe.

Final Considerations for Your Aquafit Wardrobe

• Facility Rules: Always check with your specific pool or fitness center for any particular dress code requirements or recommendations.
• Personal Comfort vs. Function: While function is key, personal comfort and confidence in your attire also play a role. Find a balance that encourages consistent participation.
• Investment: Consider investing in a few quality, chlorine-resistant pieces. They will last longer and provide better performance than cheaper, less durable alternatives.

By choosing the right attire, you set yourself up for a safe, effective, and enjoyable Aquafit experience, allowing you to fully harness the unique benefits of water-based exercise.