Low-Impact Movement. High-Impact Benefits.
Water fitness at the YMCA of Frederick County offers joint-friendly workouts that improve strength, flexibility, balance, and cardiovascular health. Exercising in water reduces impact while providing natural resistance, making classes accessible for a wide range of fitness levels and abilities.
From gentle movement to more vigorous workouts, water fitness programs support overall wellness in a supportive, encouraging environment.



Water Fitness Classes
Our aquatic fitness offerings are designed to help participants stay active, strong, and confident—no swimming experience required.
Find information below on our water fitness class descriptions.
Movin & Groovin-All Levels
A moderate fitness class for all levels. This shallow water, high energy, low to moderate impact class will increase cardio endurance and muscle tone while moving to energizing beats.
Progress In All DirectionsLevel 1 & 2
A moderate to hard level shallow water class which promotes moving in all directions in the water by use of 7-foot positions in 6 dierent directions to improve your body in multiple ways. Ideal for all levels from beginners to experienced who are looking for a class that combines cardio, strength, flexibility, and balance exercises along with resistance training.
Shallow Water-All Levels
A moderate level fitness class. This shallow water class is a full body workout using water as resistance to improve muscle strength and includes moderate cardio that is low impact. You can also expect to work on flexibility and joint mobility during class time as well.
Shallow/Deep Water-Level 1 & 2
A moderate to hard level water exercise class that combines the benefits of deep water (core) with those in the shallow water (balance). All participants should be comfortable in deep water and must wear the appropriate flotation devices (belts or saddles, provided) during the deep water portion. Ideal for participants looking for a class that combines cardio, strength, flexibility, and balance along with resistance training.
You’re In the Water Now-Level 3
This class is for experienced water exercisers only. Class will use shallow, transitional, and deep-water for maximum performance. Participants must be comfortable in the deep water and wear a flotation device in transitional and deep water (belts and saddles, provided). This is a very intense resistance, cardio, and strength class for the veteran exerciser looking for a challenge.
Ai-Chi-All Levels
A water fitness class for all levels with Mind & Body focus. This shallow water, low impact class focuses on total body relaxation through a progression of strengthening exercises to promote balance and increased body awareness.
Pi-Yo-Chi-All levels
A water fitness class for all levels with a Mind & Body focus. This shallow water class combines elements from Yoga, Pilates, and Ai-Chi to improve balance, flexibility, and strength with an emphasis on joint health. Breathwork and stretching will be explored during the Yoga and Ai-Chi segments.
Smooth Movin’-All Levels
A water fitness class appropriate for all levels. This shallow water is designed for those with arthritis, but appropriate for anybody. Class focuses on joint mobility and balance and includes low impact moderate cardio.
Thera Walk- All Levels
A shallow water, very low impact class designed for those who suer from physical or neurological challenges such as MS, Parkinson’s Disease, spine issues, and arthritis.
Warm Water-All Levels
A class appropriate for all fitness levels. This very low impact class is perfect for those who are looking to increase mobility and balance and is ideal for those who suer from arthritis.

