AMERICUS — The Deriso Pool located on the Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) Campus at Primitive and Simmons streets will be holding its open house from 4-7 p.m. today.

Tim DeMott, head coach of the Americus Blue Tide Swim Team, welcomes everyone to come and find out about the newest programs which are being offered at GSW.

For those who like to have a little fun in the water, get on your swim suit and come out; try breathing with SCUBA gear or jump around in an aquatex class. Many will find the Deriso Pool a perfect, year ‘round venue for competition or exercise.

According to 12-year aerobics instructor Marysol Pomeroy, her newest class is Aquatex Exercise for women and is being offered at 5:15 p.m. on Tuesdays and 6 p.m. on Thursdays. The program is said to be easier on painful joints, which is oftentimes the culprit which prevents one from attempting exercise.

“I like to use breathing techniques, dance and music,” Pomeroy said explaining her new class incorporates the use of water for support.

“When you’re in the water, you receive great support from the water,” Pomeroy said,  describing the water as being the element in which most are comfortable and have more freedom of motion.

“Many have told me they have knee or joint problems. Their doctors suggest to them to do water aerobics,” she said, explaining that the water supports the weight of the body taking the pressure off painful knees and joints.

Pomeroy said oftentimes, if pain prevents one from exercising they enter a downward spiral of inactivity that perpetuates the problem, leading to an unhealthy, inactive lifestyle.

“Most people feel more comfortable inside the water. It is very gentle, so not to hurt themselves. That is perfect for them,” she said.

She suggests taking water exercise before taking on high impact exercise.

The water exercise is for all ages, and various body conditions.

“We want it to be fun. We like to see confidence and smiles,” she said, explaining her experience in her previous instruction of water aerobics in Sarasota, Fla.

Pomeroy said her best reward of teaching is it becoming fun.

“It’s amazing. The body feels so light and free. We go in circles with the movement to the music and with the use of breathing techniques, it very healing to the body,” she said.

Pomeroy said she teaches groups as well as offers personal training.

“I like to teach for life. Some exercise once or twice a week. Some wish to train every day. I teach them specific techniques,” she said, adding that she has some wonderful women signed up for her class already.

“I learn so much from them,” she said, describing a symbiotic relationship as far as gaining knowledge.

“My students learn from me, as well; I learn so much from them. It’s lots of fun, smiles and laughing. It’s great!” she said enthusiastically.

For more information on year-around activities  being offered, call 924-3863.