(KGNS) - New mobility equipment at Laredo's Haynes Recreation Center is giving residents with limited mobility greater access to aqua aerobics classes.

City staff at Haynes introduced a PVC walker and wheelchair built for pool use, marking Laredo's first city-provided mobility equipment for water activities.

New gear builds confidence in the poolGrace Guttierrez, who regularly takes part in aqua aerobics and walks to get her steps in, said knowing the equipment is available makes a difference."I almost needed it two weeks ago, but I struggle in my lifetime to be strong, to be able to do things all by myself," Guttierrez said.