Aqua aerobics brings seniors together at Trafalgar pool

A free aqua-aerobics class for senior citizens has been running at Woodstock’s Trafalgar Swimming Pool every Thursday for the past month.

The pool’s facility officer, Elton Daniels, said community leader Nadiema Safter had suggested running the class and now about 30 seniors attended each week.

“It has been well received by the seniors,” he said.

Mr Daniels runs the class with lifeguard Joshua Klaasen, and the pool’s other lifeguards assist.

The seniors come from District Six, Woodstock, Bo-Kaap, Walmer Estate, Claremont and Athlone.

“We understand that some of our seniors have injuries so these exercises help strengthen their muscles around those injuries,” said Mr Daniels.

Ms Safter, who is the chairwoman of the District Six Foundation, said: “Most seniors do not have too many activities to do, and this aerobics helps with their health and many of them say it has helped them with their ailments.”

Mymona Osman, 69, of District Six, said that apart from helping with her knee problems, the class was also a way to meet new people.

Another District Six resident, Allie Petersen, 73, said he felt rejuvenated after the class. “The water and company makes this a good experience.”

Mr Daniels said the classes would pause during the festive season and resume in February next year.