For fitness and fun, just add water

In a trend raising images of surrealism in the gym, bicycles have pedalled into the pool for a new fitness workout.

An increasing numbers of exercisers, seeking everything from a sanctuary from sweat, to joint relief, to a vigorous, whole body workout, are spinning their stationary wheels under water. Esther Gauthier, the founder of the New York boutique water cycling studio AQUA, says some 80% of her clients come from indoor cycling classes. “You can burn 600 calories in 45 minutes, water is protection for your body, and when you cycle in water, you get natural massage,” says Gauthier, 31.