Aquatic exercise is the perfect solution to the ‘dog days’ of summer. In fact, studies have found that “water-based exercise can be beneficial for many people whose movement is limited by pain.” Likewise, aquatic physical therapy is a safe and effective method for healing injuries, restoring patient confidence, and increasing mobility. It also feels great!
As we near the end of summer, we all want to make the most of our time by the pool, beach, or lake. But we often think doing so can shake us out of our fitness routine. Nothing could be further from the truth! Getting in the water is a terrific way to cool off during the hot summer days, and it can also be a great way to get some exercise.
Water Exercise Is For Everyone
The buoyancy of water provides a de-weighting effect, making it easier to move and improving flexibility. Aquatic exercise is a safe and effective method for healing injuries, restoring patient confidence, and increasing mobility. There are also many health conditions that benefit from water-based exercise or aquatic physical therapy, including:
- Arthritis or other joint pain
- Arthroscopic and joint surgery recovery
- Balance disorders
- Cerebral palsy
- Chronic pain
- Lower back pain
- Orthopedic and sports injuries
- Stress fractures
- Multiple sclerosis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Scoliosis
- Spinal cord injury
Aquatic Physical Therapy: Safe, Effective, Accessible
There are a few common misconceptions about aquatic physical therapy. First, it’s often viewed as an easier, less strenuous, and less effective method than land-based exercise. However, research has proven it to be an effective therapeutic intervention for patients with arthritis, chronic pain, or joint conditions and can:
- Build muscle strength and endurance
- Improve flexibility
- Assist with gait and walking fundamentals
- Improve balance and coordination
- Reduce stress and promote relaxation
- Enhance aerobic capacity
- Offer a safe start to healing prior to and after surgery
Second, people may think that you need to be a high-level swimmer to participate. Not the case, as many of the exercises can be performed in waist-deep water or along the side of the pool wall. So, you don’t need any swimming skills to experience the benefits of aquatic therapy.
Preparing For the Pool
As with any new exercise program, it’s a good idea to check with a member of your medical team, such as your physical therapist or primary care provider, to be sure pool exercise is safe for you.
Once you’re ready to start, keep these American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) tips in mind:
- Water shoes will give you more traction on the pool floor
- Water level can be waist or chest high
- Use a Styrofoam noodle or floatation belt/vest to keep you afloat in deeper water
- Slower movements in the water will provide less resistance than faster movements
- You can use webbed water gloves, Styrofoam weights, inflated balls, or kickboards for increased resistance
- Never push your body through pain during any exercise
- You might not notice your sweat during pool exercises, but it’s still important to drink plenty of water
Get In, The Water’s Fine!
Aquatic exercises provide a great, cool alternative to most land-based activities—and they’ll help you make the most of your precious summer! To learn about some water exercises to get you moving, visit our Exercises of the Month section of our August Newsletter!
If pain or injury limits your ability to be as active as you would like, contact your nearest, call any MVPT Physical Therapy location to schedule or complete the form below to request an appointment.
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