94-Year-Old Leads Arlington Water Aerobics
A former professional mermaid teaches weekly exercise classes at the South Arlington YMCA to promote active aging.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Swimming
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At 94 years old, Samantha continues to lead active water aerobics classes for the local community. She teaches every Wednesday at the South Arlington YMCA to demonstrate that individuals can maintain physical fitness regardless of age.
Why it matters
Samantha's ongoing commitment to teaching serves as an example for older adults looking to maintain mobility. By leading these sessions, she aims to show that regular exercise is achievable and beneficial later in life.
The instructor maintains her routine at age 94, far exceeding standard retirement ages. Participants in her weekly sessions utilize weights to perform exercises like jogging and knee lifts.
The players
Samantha
She is a 94-year-old water aerobics instructor who formerly worked as a mermaid at the Weeki Wachee Aquatic Theater.
South Arlington YMCA
This is a local community fitness facility that hosts weekly water aerobics classes.
The details
The classes held in Arlington focus on functional movements including jogging and knee lifts to keep participants engaged. Attendees use weights during the sessions to enhance their water aerobics workout.
Timeline
Age 18: Samantha worked as a mermaid in Florida.
Age 81: Samantha previously received media attention.
Wednesdays at 9:45 a.m.: Water aerobics class meets at South Arlington YMCA.
Season Trajectory
This story follows the pattern set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention active living guidelines for older adults, which emphasize the benefits of low-impact resistance training. Her continued activity highlights a shift in expectations for fitness during the later stages of life.
Residents can join these water aerobics sessions every Wednesday morning to participate in structured low-impact exercise. The class provides a specific routine involving weighted resistance movements suitable for various fitness levels.
The takeaway
Maintaining a consistent exercise routine can significantly contribute to longevity and physical mobility in later years. Even low-impact activities like water aerobics provide essential resistance training that supports overall health.
Further reading
For more information on local fitness programs, visit the Swimming section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth.
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