HYPERMOBILITY
Hypermobility is the term used to describe the ability to move joints beyond their normal range of movement (ROM) and is often misdiagnosed, unrecognised and poorly managed. It is a multi systemic Hereditary Connective Tissue Disorder (NHS. 2014).
EXERCISING IN WATER IS EASIER ON THE JOINTS
Although the water provides greater resistance, it also cushions your joints so you don’t experience the pounding during water exercise that you might experience on dry land. When you are submerged in chest deep water 75% of body weight is buoyant. People who cannot do jumping or jogging movements on land exercises are usually able to do them in water.
CARDIO ENDURANCE
Pool workouts are a great way to build up cardio endurance. When in cooler water, the blood moves through the body at a faster rate to warm it up. When coupled with an aerobic program the result is an improved cardiovascular performance over time.
SOFT ENVIRONMENT
Unlike many exercises, the pool provides a “soft” environment for workouts. Not only do you not have to worry about falling, as the water supports the body in every position, but the water also helps alleviate the feelings of fatigue because it’s supporting so much of the body’s weight.
HYDRO, WATER, AQUATIC THERAPY
Aquatic therapy is the process using the water’s properties as the primary therapeutic medium. It actively and passively rehabilitates musculoskeletal, neurological and cardiopulmonary conditions.
The water therapist uses specific techniques to help reduce your pain, improve tone, decrease spasmodic activity and improve mobility.
The properties of water and its hydrodynamics are contributing factors that assist in improvements in gait, balance, strength, range of motion and posture.
Hydrotherapy is excellent for you if you have had an injury that prevents you from weight bearing on land. The buoyancy of water assists in supporting the body weight, whilst you can improve muscle strength and mobility through the injured limb.
Exercise in Water
Aquatic exercise or aquatic fitness is the process using water and its properties as the primary exercise medium. It can be exercise specific or part of a health related exercise regime.
All exercises are performed in water using the properties of water, with or without water specific equipment.
Exercising in water decreases joint compression whilst increasing range of movement, muscular strength and endurance, cardiovascular and cardio respiratory fitness.hydrotherapy
It is excellent for cross training with benefits for runners as a way of training without impact, it will increase speeds and assist in training for endurance
Aquatic exercise is also excellent for mind body coordination and fall prevention, it is also very beneficial for anti & post natal fitness and posture.
Benefits of Water Therapy & Exercise
- Decreases pain
- Decreases blood pressure
- Improves circulation
- Increases bone density
- Minimises impact on joints
- Improves flexibility & range of motion
- Improves motor control
- Improves postural awareness & alignment
- Decreases oedema
- Stimulates production of serotonin
