The average age of the students in this class is 72.

Elderly Ames residents participating in water aerobics classes at the YMCA are making a splash and getting in shape at the same time.

YMCA Director Kathy Smelzer said the classes offer many benefits for both the participants and the Iowa State students who help teach the class.

“The classes are a nice exchange between the community and students,” she said. “Students have developed long-lasting relationships.”

Four ISU students teach the water aerobics classes every weekday morning. Lifeguard certification is required to become an instructor.

Jennessa Sbiral, senior in psychology, is the aquatics director at the YMCA.

“[The participants] love it. Some people have been in it for 13-15 years,” Sbiral said. “It’s a wonderful way for them to exercise; it’s really social.”

Many of the elderly participants are referred to the program by doctors for rehabilitation purposes. Smelzer said the water takes much of the pressure off the joints of exercisers.

“They help eliminate joint discomfort,” Smelzer said. “[The water] supports 90 percent of the body weight and therefore is easy on joints.”

The participants work on strength and toning, as well as cardiovascular exercises.

The classes are held at the pool in State Gym.

“The State Gym pool is a wonderful resource through the university that the community can benefit from,” Smelzer said.

Janice Serovy has been a resident of Ames for over 40 years and has been involved with the water aerobics class for two years. She said “increased flexibility and overall well being” are two of the benefits she has noticed.

“I feel better on the three days a week that I do it,” Serovy said.

Serovy said the student instructors are well-trained and helpful.

“I really think they have good instructors. Even when school is not in session, they are good about getting an instructor for us,” she said.