This isn't your grandmother's aqua sport

In the summer, public pools sparkle under the sun and beaches come alive. Most people know that swimming is a great way to keep fit. However, water aerobics is an activity that most swimmers shy away from.
Known as the “old-lady sport” in many YMCAs across Ontario, structured water aerobics classes have been around since the 1950’s. Water aerobics utilize the drag resistance in water to create a resistance training regimen.
Let’s get the misconceptions out of the way. The reason many elderly people engage in aqua fitness is because of the low-impact environment; being in the water takes pressure off the joints, muscles, and tendons. People can achieve effective resistance workouts without any high-impact movements.
Toronto’s Sunnybrook Hospital offers the Arthritis Aquatic Program. The hospital considers it an effective method for arthritic treatment and management.
[su_quote]“Many people tell me the pressure of the water feels good on the body, even if you just stand there doing nothing,” says Jan Rakovsky, an aqua fitness coach who founded the Aqua Fitness program at York.[/su_quote]
Rehabilitating injuries in the water is a growing strategy in professional sport. The customization of workouts make water aerobics a widespread training tool. Much like the elderly, injured athletes are able to engage in movements in the water that would otherwise be too dangerous on land.
Rakovsky believes that implementing water in rehabilitation techniques increases the speed at which athletes recover.
“A great example is Carson Palmer, the NFL quarterback,” says Rakovsky. “He was one of the first pro athletes to publicize aquatic rehabilitation after his severe knee injury.” Carson Palmer recovered from a torn ACL, MCL, meniscus, and a dislocated patella in eight months.
“People in the know realize that sports conditioning in the water is quite popular with sports teams and elite athletes. It is a way to challenge the muscles and cardiovascular system without the impact on the joints many sports demand,” says Rakovsky.
Aqua fitness programs can range from laidback to intense, depending on personal goals. “Intense aqua fitness workouts involve quick, powerful movements through water,”says Rakovsky.
Power movements such as squat jumps and water sprints are performed in the shallow end. The deep-end workouts cut out all impact, resulting in the safest environment.
“Medical professional recommendations may encourage people to participate, but anyone who recognizes that aqua fitness will address their fitness needs can participate.” says Rakovsky.
For people who cringe at the thought of swimming laps in the pool, aqua fitness proves to be a sufficient alternative.
 
Amjed Al Salman
Sports & Health Editor
 
Image source: Kinga Szymczyk