February's Wellness Wednesday

Aquatic Exercise for Wellness

Our Wellness Wednesday session for February featured an engaging presentation by Molly Patton, MSEd, CES, highlighting the benefits of aquatic exercise and how water-based movement can support overall health and mobility.

Why Consider Aquatic Exercise?

Water-based workouts offer unique advantages due to the properties of water, such as buoyancy, viscosity, hydrostatic pressure, and temperature regulation. These elements can help reduce joint stress, improve balance, and provide a safe and effective environment for exercise.

Key Benefits of Aquatic Exercise:

Low-Impact Support – Water reduces the impact on joints, making movement easier for those with mobility concerns.

Improved Strength and Balance – Resistance in water helps build muscle while enhancing stability and coordination.

Temperature Regulation – Water helps manage body temperature, which can be beneficial for those sensitive to heat.

Flexibility and Relaxation – Exercises in water can reduce muscle tightness and promote relaxation.

Safety and Considerations:

Molly emphasized the importance of listening to your body during exercise and recognizing the difference between general soreness and pain. She also advised:

Using Accessible Pool Entry Methods – Consider stairs or a chair lift for safe access.

Bringing a Workout Buddy – Having a partner can provide support and enhance safety.

Choosing the Right Time of Day – Some may find exercise easier in the morning or evening to avoid fatigue.

Taking Rest Breaks – Pacing workouts can help prevent overexertion.

Aquatic Equipment to Enhance Workouts:

Several tools can be used to modify resistance and support movement in the water, including:

Foam Noodles and Buoy Bells – Provide resistance and assist with balance.

Kickboards and Flotation Belts – Help with strength and endurance training.

Resistance Gloves and Paddles – Add extra challenge for upper body workouts.

Aquatic Exercise Examples:

Molly introduced a variety of water-based exercises, including:

Walking, jogging, and swimming for cardiovascular benefits.

Strength movements like leg lifts, squats, and push-ups using the pool wall.

Ai Chi (water-based Tai Chi) to improve balance, flexibility, and relaxation.

Final Thoughts:

Aquatic exercise offers a fun and effective way to stay active while reducing joint stress and enhancing mobility. Whether you’re looking to build strength, improve balance, or simply enjoy movement in a supportive environment, incorporating water-based workouts can be a great addition to your routine.

Missed the Session?

If you couldn’t join us live, don’t worry! You can watch the full recording https://youtu.be/D2bvzhPG3wQ and catch up on all the valuable information shared. 

New to Wellness Wednesdays?

It’s not too late to join in! Check out the full class schedule here to see upcoming topics and make sure to mark your calendar. These sessions are designed to empower individuals living with MS and anyone interested in enhancing their health and wellness.

Full Class Schedule