AquaSpin in Singapore: Splash your way fit with a full body workout
Spinning class Singapore: burn calories, reduce cellulite and get very wet with this outdoor group exercise class
Text: Livvie B
Us Soothers are constantly on the lookout for new workout classes to try and this week, we gave AquaSpin a, erm, spin. Claiming on its website that participants will ‘Get Wet, Tone Up, Get Fit!’ we prepped for the promise of a fun-fuelled, high intensity, alfresco workout in a swimming pool in Singapore. I donned my swimsuit, lathered on some SPF, filled up my water bottle, and was on my way.
Essentially a spinning class submerged underwater, AquaSpin is a low impact full body workout so it’s a winner if you’re suffering from any injuries, and as the motions are all scalable it’s suitable for all fitness levels. The full body workout improves cardio endurance, enhances blood circulation, and helps to reduce cellulite thanks to the natural massage from the surrounding water.
Socially distanced spinning
AquaSpin classes take place at a range of locations across the island, but I opted for the Oasia option, which is just a short walk from The Soothe’s HQ in Tanjong Pagar. As I arrived, Nicoy, my class instructor was already poolside in the process of sinking the bikes into the (extremely chilly!) pool. Before the session started, all the newbies at the group exercise class were given a quick 101 on how to adjust our bike and the six key positions we’d be using throughout.
While AquaSpin has all the plus points of a group workout session — a sense of camaraderie and, let’s face it, a little bit more pressure to give it your all — the class sizes are kept very small (there were only 8 of us spinning), and you spend the entire session within the vicinity of your own bike, so at no point was social distancing a concern.
Outdoor spin session
I joined a 45-minute Aqua Signature class, a high intensity training session designed to get participants sprinting for short periods, followed by active recovery to increase heart rate quickly and burn maximum calories.
After a quick warm up, we dived into (geddit?) the first part of the session, which comprised of us running through the various spinning positions and pedalling at different intensities. Nicoy’s energetic encouragement, coupled with the upbeat pop playlist, made it impossible not to want to spin as fast as I could, and once the intitial shock of the cold water had disappeared, the feeling of being surrounded by cool water made it much more enjoyable than it would have been on land.
The middle part of the class focused on strength and conditioning, and we were led through a range of sequences that were designed to work our arms and abs. The later part of the session saw us all push ourselves to our limits, as we spun at 100% intensity with Nicoy shouting a motivating “Go, Go, Go!”
Despite challenging myself during the class, I didn’t find myself wishing it was over (unusual for me!), and I thoroughly enjoyed the entire 45-minute session.
Benefits of AquaSpin
For me, one of the main benefits of the workout was the lack of muscle soreness afterwards. I sometimes find it difficult to stay focused, and a sore butt from a previous workout usually provides me with excuses to skip my class altogether. Thanks to the massaging effects of the water, lactic acid doesn’t build up in your muscles as you spin which minimises aches.
Other benefits of being submerged in the ice-cold pool include the reduction of cellulite — the water engages agonist and antagonist muscles to drain the lymphatic system — and the lack of sweat. Interestingly, you do actually sweat during class but the water reduces body heat, helping you to feel cool throughout. Another good thing is that the bikes have a hydrodynamic pedal which uses a Full Progressive Resistance concept. This is code for ‘you cannot cheat’. The fitter and stronger you are, the harder the water will make you work, so this class truly is scalable for all.
AquaSpin Singapore offers a first timers Introduction Week priced at S$60, with the intro week enabling you to book up to three classes over a seven-day period. For longer commitment, a range of options are available including personal training.
For more information visit aquaspin.sg
