Land-based training also tends to rely on both gravity and
momentum. When the body enters the water, both of these are
significantly reduced and the body has to respond very differently.
This is a great way to challenge the body, break through plateaus,
cross train, and balance muscle groups and dysfunctional movement
patterns shown to significantly affect progress and performance.
In my 25 years specialising in aquatic fitness, I have worked with
clients of all levels and abilities, from those suffering spinal cord
injuries and severe neurological disease/disorders up to professional
and world-class athletes. I have found that everyone can benefit from
the water in some capacity. I currently train a significant number of
elite Alpine skiers, both on the land and in the water. I incorporate
the water for a number of reasons, from rehabilitation of in-season
injuries to pre-season power, speed and agility cross training and
active recovery.
Use scientific credibility to promote effective
workouts
As aqua professionals, we need to develop quality, scientificallybased programs based on the latest research. In a world demanding
increased efficiency, more people should be aware that the pool can
be the new gym.
In the past few years, some promising aquatic research has been
published. Several studies show that the water can be a fantastic
training environment to challenge any fitness level, including Olympic
and professional athletes. Strength training in the water was once
thought impossible, but over the past few years studies have shown
that if used with the correct pace, equipment and effort, noticeable
strength gains can be achieved.
Research has also shown gains in lower body flexibility after
participating in aquatic fitness programs. Power training, especially
plyometrics in the water, has been extensively studied and the
results are very similar to those for land-based training, but without
the added muscle soreness associated with land training. I have
personally performed research in the area of shallow water sprinting
compared to land-based sprinting. The results showed that the
participants reported a much harder workout in the water with much
less muscle soreness.
When developing an aquatic fitness program at your facility, don’t
be afraid to think outside of the box. By doing so you can attract a new
clientele th