What to Wear to Water Aerobics: A Guide for Women

The short answer: for water aerobics, wear a chlorine proof swim top and a bottom you can move in freely, such as swim shorts, capris or a swim skirt with attached shorts or leggings, plus a supportive swim bra. Chlorine proof fabric matters most, because a weekly class in a chlorinated pool wears out ordinary swimsuits fast.

Water aerobics is one of the kindest workouts for your joints, and many of our customers go two or three times a week. As Kim G. told us: "I swim at the YMCA 3 days a week with the seniors." When you are in the pool that often, what you wear needs to keep up with you. Here is what we have learned from making modest swimwear for women since 2007.

1. Choose chlorine proof fabric

Chlorine is what ruins most swimsuits. Standard swimwear fabric slowly loses its stretch in chlorinated water, sags, fades and can start to turn see-through. If you take a class every week, that can happen within one season.

There are two levels of protection, and the words sound alike, so it helps to know the difference (we explain it in detail in Chlorine Proof vs. Chlorine Resistant Swimwear):

• Chlorine resistant fabric (usually nylon with Xtra Life Lycra®) holds up better than standard swimwear and is fine for occasional pool swims.
• 100% chlorine proof fabric (PBT polyester) is made for frequent pool swimming. It keeps its shape and color class after class, which is why we recommend it for water aerobics.

Every piece in our Water Aerobics collection is chlorine proof, except the swim bras listed below.

"I love the fit of my new full zippered swim top! I do 10 water fitness classes a week and really need chlorine proof items! … My second top is now almost 20 years old and still going."

— Peggy J., on the Easy On and Off Full Zippered Athletic Swim Top

2. Pick coverage you can move in

In water aerobics your arms are overhead, your legs kick and you twist and jog in place. Look for:

• A top that stays in place. A swim shirt with the right torso length will not float up or ride up as you move. Short, 3/4 or long sleeves are all fine; long sleeves add sun protection if your pool is outdoors.
• A bottom with built-in coverage. Swim shorts and capris move with you. If you prefer a skirt, choose one with attached shorts or leggings, so you never have to tug at your bottom between moves.
• Sun protection for outdoor pools. All of our fabrics carry UPF 50+.

"Chlorine-proof items have lasted me for years of water aerobics classes several times a week. I buy short-sleeve tops and long shorts, and I appreciate having that option for less revealing clothes."

— Melissa C.

3. Don't skip the swim bra

Most modest swim tops are designed to be worn over a separate swim bra, so you can choose your own support. A swim bra that doubles as a sports bra gives you hold for jumping jacks and jogging in the water. Trudy M. said of hers: "I was impressed with the comfort and support… it really kept me dry under my rash-guard shirt."

For women after a mastectomy, our Mastectomy Supreme Swim and Sports Bra has removable cups and inner pockets for a prosthesis.

4. Three water aerobics outfits that work

The class favorite: shirt and shorts

The Aqua Pacific Fitness Modest Rash Guard with 3/4 sleeves, paired with our Bermuda Length Water Aerobics Swim Shorts and the Supreme Swim and Sports Bra. The shorts were redesigned specifically for frequent pool swimmers. Donita A. wrote: "I've ordered them a few times before and love them."

For skirt lovers

The Sea Breeze Two Tone V-Neck Swim Top with short sleeves and the Swing Skirt 21" with attached shorts. A snap on the hem keeps the skirt down in the water, and it looks just as good when you head out for coffee after class.

Full coverage

The Multi Exercise Zippered Swim Top with long sleeves and a quarter-zip, paired with the Activewear Long Swim and Sports Skirt 28" with attached leggings, or the Long Yoga Swim Pants.

"The only water aerobic clothes I choose to wear for comfort, fit, style and durability. Over 6 years and I would not know where to buy the quality of these."

— Laurel G., on the Inspire Swim and Sport Skirt 20"

5. Getting the size right

Swim fabric stretches a little in the water and returns to its shape when dry, so choose a close fit at the waist. Our styles come in Missy S–XL and Plus Full Cut 0X–5X. Each product page lists the exact garment measurements, so you can compare them with something you already own.

Water aerobics swimwear FAQ

Can I wear a regular swimsuit to water aerobics?

You can, but if you go every week, a standard swimsuit will lose its shape and color in chlorine fairly quickly. Chlorine proof swimwear lasts much longer in the pool.

What is the difference between chlorine proof and chlorine resistant?

Chlorine resistant fabric holds up better than standard swimwear. 100% chlorine proof fabric is built for frequent pool swimming and keeps its shape and color season after season.

Do I need a swim bra under a swim shirt?

Most modest swim tops are made to be worn with a separate swim bra. It gives you support during the workout and lets you choose the fit that suits you.

Is a swim skirt practical for water aerobics?

Yes, as long as it has attached shorts or leggings underneath. You get full freedom of movement and the coverage of a skirt.

Do you carry plus sizes?

Yes. Most of our water aerobics styles are available up to 5X.

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