Variety of water-friendly classes offered at the Y
Learn to swim or swim to get fit

The Simi Valley YMCA offers water fitness classes for all ages and all physical fitness levels at 3200 Cochran St.

The YMCA's "Poolates" class is basically Pilates in water.

The slow, controlled movements tone muscles and tighten the abdominal region.

The class also helps improve posture, build strength and flexibility, shape legs and develop better balance.

Participation is appropriate for people with back problems or injuries because it limits the strain on joints that would normally occur with impact exercising.

Poolates classes are held every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8 to 8:45 a.m. Water Exercise Training (WET) gives participants an aerobic workout without the affects of gravity.

The water resistance provides a full body workout, helps tone and define muscles, and burns excess calories.

WET classes are held Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 to 10 a.m. Water fitness classes are offered year round at the YMCA's heated indoor swimming pool.

Beginners are welcome and swimming ability is not required.

More than 30 participants attend each class.

No sign-ups are required and there is no class fee, but participants must by YMCA members.

For more information, call Erin Pierik, aquatics director, at (805) 583-5338, or e-mail epierik@simiymca.org.