If you want to workout and get a tan in the process, the Greenville Y.M.C.A. has the answer you.

The nonnprofit organization holds water aerobics twice a week for those who don't want to break a sweat and still get whipped into shape.

"The people that take just enjoy it," Y.M.C.A. Executive Director Amanda Phillips said. "They say that it's very relaxing and that they really don't feel like they're getting a workout until they go to get out of the pool. Then they realize how much they've worked their legs, arms and the lower part of their body. They don't really realize they're tired until they get out of the water."

For three years, the Y.M.C.A. has offered water aerobics. Lisa Nimmer has been the instructor for the past two years. Phillips said ever since Nimmer came on board, participation has doubled because participants have seen positive results in their health.

"I think they're seeing a difference in their mobility and moving in their bodies," Phillips said. "Not only that, they've got a good instructor. They really enjoy her down there."

In some cases, possible participants shy away from water aerobics because they don't know how to swim. Phillips said knowing how to swim doesn't matter.

"The thing we try to remind everybody of is that you don't have to know how to swim to participate because you never go under water," Phillips said. "We've had a lot of people call and want to take it, but they'll say they don't know how to swim. We keep assuring people that you don't go out in the deep and you don't have to know how to swim. That's brought a lot of people in."

People of all ages have participated in water aerobics. The classes not only keep teenagers and younger adults in shape, but it also helps relieve stress. For older adults that are unable to participate in step aerobics or any other means of working out, it gives them a way of staying in shape.

"We've got a couple of older ladies that have complained about their knees, their joints and since they've been taking water aerobics they said their knees and joints don't hurt anymore," Phillips said.

Classes are held Tuesday and Thursday from 5:15 p.m. until 6:15 p.m.

For more information, call the Y.M.C.A. at 382n0550.