A Chicago Park District water aerobics class for older adults at the Washington Park pool has been extended through August 21 following a public pushback from senior participants, according to Park District officials. The class, which serves swimmers ranging in age from 60 to 90, was initially canceled in May before being partially restored and now stretched for an additional week following community advocacy.
Washington Park Water Aerobics Class Extension Details
Park District spokesperson Irene Tostado stated via email that programming at the site was extended due to the high popularity of the water workouts. The sessions now culminate on August 21, running on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Participants normally number around 30 daily, though attendance has occasionally doubled during peak summer sessions.
Origins and Community Impact of the Senior Swim Program
The aquatic exercise routine dates back to 2024 when the Washington Park outdoor pool reopened, led by volunteer instructor Erick Johnson. Seniors credit the hour-long full-body workouts with managing health conditions. Marie Gunn, 82, stated that the exercise kept her arthritis asymptomatic, while retired nurse Rose Hanley noted the classes helped her stay active following heart surgery and built a social network after retirement. Participants also highlighted Johnson’s personal investment in the program, noting he purchased equipment with his own funds and once invited a Chicago Symphony Orchestra violinist to play during a cool-down period.
Park District Policy Conflict and Resolution
The program faced disruption in May when Andrew Walsh, the Park District’s director of aquatics, stated in an email that local park staff had never officially reported the class up the chain. Walsh noted that district policy dictates classes must be taught by paid Park District employees who are certified lifeguards with specific American Red Cross Instructor Training Certification. Because Johnson did not fit this employment structure, he was initially barred from teaching.
In response, about 15 participants attended a community meeting hosted by Ald. Jeanette Taylor’s (20th) office in May and spoke at the Park District’s Board of Commissioners meeting in June. Park District Supt. Carlos Ramirez-Rosa directed the group to Walsh, leading to subsequent meetings and the eventual scheduling of an official class. Tostado confirmed that district instructors must handle the teaching duties, while Johnson is permitted to attend and assist in demonstrating exercises.
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According to participants, the Washington Park senior water aerobics class filled a major gap in the South Side schedule, as alternative aquatic exercise options listed on the Park District website were located too far away, such as a 7 a.m. class at the National Teacher’s Academy near Chinatown.
Future Uncertainty for Next Summer’s Schedule
Whether the Washington Park senior water aerobics program will return for the next summer season remains unconfirmed by park officials. Tostado encouraged participants to reach out to local park supervisors to share their interest in specific programming when seasonal schedules are drafted. Meanwhile, participants continue to navigate the reduced three-day-a-week schedule, which officials attributed to lifeguard hiring difficulties and broader staffing needs across city beaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the extended Washington Park water aerobics class end?
The class now runs through August 21, according to Park District spokesperson Irene Tostado.
Who teaches the senior water aerobics class at Washington Park?
Official classes must be led by district instructors who are American Red Cross-certified lifeguards with Instructor Training Certification. Volunteer Erick Johnson is permitted to attend and assist in demonstrating exercises.
Will the class return next year?
Park District officials have not yet confirmed next year’s schedule and encourage participants to contact their local park supervisor to advocate for the program’s return.
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