Linda Hoffman moved to Hilton in 1966 and graduated from Hilton High School in 1979. She became interested in water aerobics after watching her mom take classes. She began as a student of water exercise in 1991 at Merton Williams school. Little did she know that this decision would lead her to a lifelong career in teaching water aerobics to countless people in the western Monroe County community.
“I just loved the water class,” said Linda. The only equipment that was used was pool noodles and empty milk jugs. “For every inch of water it provided enough weight to challenge our muscles,” she recalled.
Linda began teaching the classes in Hilton the fall of 1992 and went on to get her certification for water aerobic instruction in 1997. In 2002, Merton Williams built a new aquatic center with an eight-lane pool, diving well, new bleachers and its own entrance. During the time of this construction, Linda taught at Greece Athena and also taught water aerobics at the Greece YMCA for ten years. “I am well preserved with all that chlorine,” laughed Linda.
Linda taught for 30 years and had clients ranging from age 15 to 93. She has worked with hundreds of residents from the community and at times she would have more than 40 clients in the pool at one time, which she could manage thanks to her “wing woman,” Jeanne Townsend.
“I was committed to this program to do the best job I could,” said Linda. “The friendships I made have been rewarding.”
Linda would encourage her clients to work a little harder, talk a little less and really work up a sweat. “The veteran students who came back year after year, that would do anything I led them to do, is the real reason why the class lasted so long,” she said. “I was happy to be their drill sergeant,” she chuckled.
Linda officially retired on June 15. “After 30 years of commitment and dedication, this girl is taking a break!” she exclaimed. She will also be retiring in June from her position at Summitview Auto.
“I see more camping and vacationing days in the near future, and maybe taking up gardening and golf. I also miss having a dog so maybe I will get a dog!” Linda and her boyfriend, Jack Yeager, plan to be Florida snowbirds.
As Linda concludes this chapter of teaching water aerobics, she extends her gratitude and appreciation to Hilton Community Education as well as everyone who passed through her class. “We are like an extended family, and I am truly humbled, blessed and enriched for each of you,” she said.
