About
Kia ora, I am Tania and I'm here to help you get stronger and move better.
Struggling to get started or unsure how to exercise safely and effectively? You’re not alone, and that’s exactly where I come in.
With over ten years of experience as a group fitness instructor and more than three years as a personal trainer, I’ve helped many clients overcome obstacles and achieve real results. From losing weight to gaining strength, improving mobility, and simply feeling better day-to-day, my clients come from all walks of life and all fitness levels.
I specialise in transforming the pool into your personal fitness space, making it low-impact, safe, and incredibly effective. Whether you’re just starting out, managing an injury, or looking for a new challenge, I’ll tailor a program to suit your unique needs and goals.
Let’s make fitness something that works for you - not against you.
Vision
I created Tania Horton – The Aquatic PT because I saw how many people were being left behind by traditional fitness options. Whether you're managing an injury, new to exercise, or simply don’t feel at home in a gym, I believe you still deserve access to movement that builds strength, confidence, and wellbeing.
My passion is helping people like you find a safe, enjoyable, and effective way to stay active, no matter your starting point. Together, we’ll work toward your goals in a way that feels supportive, achievable, and empowering.
Mission
I’m here to help you find a way to enjoy the benefits of exercise. Whether that’s in the gym, the pool, or a mix of both. If you’re feeling unsure about where to start, what your body can handle, or how to stay consistent, I’ll work with you to create a plan that suits your ability, lifestyle, and goals.
Exercise should feel empowering, not overwhelming—and I’m here to make it accessible, achievable, and even enjoyable.
Qualifications
I have spent time developing my skill set and knowledge base to ensure
you are getting the best outcomes.
New Zealand certificate in
Exercise level 4
Austswim WETS Aqua
Instructor Licence
National Certificate in Recreation and Sport (aquatics) (Swim Education)
Level 3
National Certificate in Fitness
(Group Fitness Instruction)
Level 3
National Certificate in Sport Coaching
Level 3
Nutrition Diploma
REPS Registered (Register of Exercise Professionals NZ) through to Sept 2025
History
My Journey to Aquatic Fitness
An active lifestyle has always been part of who I am. When my three kids were little, running was my go-to. After dropping them off at kindy, I’d lace up my shoes and head out, it was my time to clear my head and enjoy the mental and physical benefits of movement.
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But everything changed when I developed a knee injury. It was frustrating to be held back from the activity I loved. That’s when I turned to swimming at Marlborough Lines Stadium 2000. It offered a way to stay fit without aggravating my knees.
While swimming helped me stay active, doing laps three times a week quickly became repetitive and, frankly, a bit boring. Then came my mum’s suggestion: “Why don’t you try aquacise?” I’ll admit, I wasn’t sold. I had the impression it was just for older people. But after some persistent encouragement, I gave it a go.
I couldn’t believe how wrong I was. Aquacise gave me a full-body workout, improved my cardio, and completely changed how I viewed exercise in the water. I gained a whole new respect for those “older” participants who were absolutely smashing it in the pool.
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Soon after, a swim teacher I knew encouraged me to consider teaching. At first, I wasn’t sure, I didn’t have a background in swim instruction. But the idea stuck. The hours worked well around my kids’ school schedule, and I was already loving the water. So, I took the leap.
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Since then, I’ve qualified as a swim teacher, group fitness instructor, coach, and personal trainer. I’ve discovered a passion for helping others find joy and strength through water-based exercise, and I love designing creative, engaging workouts that suit all fitness levels.
Now, with my kids in their teens, I, alongside many passionate professionals around the world am on a mission:
To introduce more people to the life-changing, joint-friendly, full-body benefits of aquatic fitness. My clients will tell you it’s not just effective, it’s fun, empowering, and something they look forward to every week.
