'Superficially, you're performing rudimentary movements to Akon songs, but my class was full of conspiratorial pensioners who used it as a chance to natter'
What is it? You might know it better as aqua aerobics, or aquafit, or that thing you reluctantly do twice on holiday to offset all the breakfast pudding you've been eating. Aerobics in a swimming pool, basically.
How much does it cost? I tried it at the King's Hall leisure centre in Hackney, east London, where it was £7.95.
What does it promise? A low-impact class - perfect for beginners or injured runners - that works by putting the human body in direct opposition to water's natural resistance.
What's it actually like? In my class, in the middle of a quiet weekday, I had a ball. Superficially, you're just performing rudimentary movements to Akon songs in your pants for an hour, but the class was full of conspiratorial pensioners who used it as a chance to natter with their mates. At no point does it become especially exhausting, but if it all gets a bit too easy, you can shuffle into a deeper part of the pool, where more of your body has to fight against the water.
Best and worst bit The worst part, especially if it's your first time, is probably the anticipation - you'll imagine yourself prancing around in a pool with a lot of older ladies and, if you're as uppity as me, you might think it's a little below you. The best bit, though, is realising that your fears were unfounded. It's probably not the most strenuous workout, but it's a laugh.
Is it worth it? If you're training for an ultramarathon? No. But if you want a moderately hard workout that's actually a deceptive amount of fun? Yes.@stuheritage
'The best bit is realising that your fears were unfounded.' Illustration: Son of Alan for the Guardian