A new fitness class held at Invercargill’s Splash Palace is making waves with members of the public.

Aqua Wave is focused on getting members of the public back into physical activity in a safe and supportive environment.

Council Aquatic Services Manager Stephen Cook said the idea for the Aqua Wave class had originated from conversations with Active Southland and Fusion Fitness.

“We’d been in talks with Active Southland around other activities we could look to offer those on Green Prescriptions, who were new or returning to physical activity. We landed on the idea of an Aqua Wave class as it would offer the public an easily accessible fitness class in warmer water.”

The first Aqua Wave class, which took place on Tuesday, had 17 attendees and was set to grow in the coming weeks. Run by a qualified personal trainer, it is the only fitness class to be held in Splash Palace’s wave pool.

“We’re really pleased with how successful the first class has been and the addition of Aqua Wave will see the different types of fitness classes we offer now grow to five.

“To encourage more people into physical activity we’re also offering the public free fitness classes this week, so they can jump in and have ago,” Cook said.

Active Southland’s Green Prescription Physical Activity and Nutrition Advisor Susan McNeill said it was great to see patients being supported on the next stage of their health journey.

“These water-based activities are warm, safe and anyone can give them a go. We’ve seen a real sense of community develop amongst the people taking part as well.”

“It’s great to be able to provide the community with a range of aqua classes that are suitable for all ages and abilities,” Cook said.

Splash Palace are currently offering free fitness classes as part of its ‘Have a Go’ week, which runs from 6 – 12 May. It is also offering 25% off Aqua Discount Cards until 12 May.

Aqua Wave is held in Splash Palace’s wave pool every Tuesday morning at 9:15am.