Locals Diving into Cardio and Choreography at SWELL’s Aquathon

Locals Diving into Cardio and Choreography at SWELL’s Aquathon  

Backdropped by glowing sunset skies, over 50 local participants gathered for a two-hour twilight aqua exercise festival at SWELL Palmerston to mark Worldwide Aquathon Day. The event successfully raising money for Belgravia Foundation, Belgravia Leisure’s charity partner, supporting local community inclusion programs that connect people to sports, aquatics, leisure, recreation, fitness, and employment opportunities. 

Participants, including those living with injury or chronic pain, enjoyed the range of physical and mental health benefits provided by aqua exercise. The festival offered high-intensity cardio, low-impact training, choreographed Aquafit routines, and combat-style moves, all guided by five energetic instructors on deck. Music, a sausage sizzle, a lucky draw, and a craziest-hat contest added to the festive atmosphere. 

Deb Pennell, Aquafit instructor at SWELL Palmerston, highlighted the program’s inclusivity: 

"This twilight session supports Aquafit, designed for everyone, including people living with chronic conditions. Fundraising for Belgravia Foundation ensures all members of the community can access fitness and recreation, regardless of circumstance. It is always rewarding to see participants leave energised, smiling, and discovering the joy of exercising in water, especially those who once believed they could not participate." 

Local businesses contributed to the success of the festival, with Staunch Crab Apparel, Birds of Paradise Fashions, and Fashion & Gifts Coolalinga providing donations and vouchers. 

Worldwide Aquathon Day, established in 2009, encourages people globally to experience the benefits of exercising in water. With over 35 countries, including India, Mexico, France, and the USA participating, SWELL Palmerston joined the global movement with energy and enthusiasm. 

Ashley Stephens, Venue Manager at SWELL Palmerston, remarked: 

"It was inspiring to see the community unite through the Aquafit program to support Belgravia Foundation and make a tangible difference locally." 

SWELL’s Aquafit program continues to support the health, wellbeing, and happiness of Palmerston locals, strengthening connections and enhancing opportunities for participation in leisure activities.