Overall health benefits from water fitness classes can include increased strength, endurance, aerobic fitness, balance and improved flexibility (Wang et al., 2007, Sanders, 2006).  Participation in a water exercise program improved the functional reach, balance and reduced fall risk in adults over 80 (Simmons et al., 1997).  Suomi et al. (1997) saw significant improvements in the ability to perform ADLs in older adults with arthritis.  Improved ability to perform ADLs minimizes the limiting effects of aging and maximizes independence for older adults.

Exercising in a pool is easier because water takes some weight off painful joints.  "The water is holding you up, in a deep water class there is no impact on joints while in a shallow water class the impact is greatly reduced" states Sandi Liming, Aquatics Director at the Mid-County Family YMCA in Brentwood.  Liming also says "walking through water puts 17% more resistance on your body than on land and this contributes to increased muscle density".  In a study with women, aged 62-65 years, Bocalini (2008) found water-based exercise to significantly improve upper and lower body strength and upper and lower body flexibility when compared to land-based exercise.  Improved body strength, flexibility, and balance achieved through regular water exercise are important contributers to performing ADLs and continued independence for older adults.