Making aquatic therapy possible
As aquatic therapy in rehabilitation settings increases in popularity, industry manufacturers are focused now more than ever on developing equipment that not only facilitates recovery, but also allows people of many different abilities to access and take advantage of its benefits.
Historically, pools were typically designed to cater only to able-bodied people; oftentimes, leaving those who needed the water the most, unable to access it. However, since 2010, revisions have been made to accessibility standards and codes to include pools. As a result, a major shift in societal thinking has been paving the way for an increasing number of people to be able to enjoy all the benefits aquatics has to offer.
Now, with developments such as pool lifts and zero-depth entry pools, more people can start improving their quality of life. A wonderful aspect about water is its ability to provide not only low-resistance therapy, but also an incredible full body workout.
When it comes to exercise and rehabilitation, water can be used in many ways. On one hand, one’s buoyancy alone can be used to aid mobility, on the other hand, the natural resistance water provides can also be used to increase workout efficiency and intensity. Since water offers 12 to 14 times more resistance than land-based exercise alone—in addition to aiding in body temperature regulation—athletes from all around the world use aquatic training in their regular routines. Innovations in aquatic fitness equipment, such as swim spas, underwater pool bikes, and treadmills help fitness professionals take advantage of these benefits in fun and unique ways that help them target different muscle groups. Recent studies have also shown regular aquatic exercise can improve heart health and cardiovascular strength, balance and flexibility, and build endurance.
Further, studies have shown swimming can even improve mental health in several ways. It is known that decreased physical activity is directly correlated with increased levels of depression. So, it makes sense that people with limited mobility might be struggling the most with the inability to do the one thing they need to improve their mental health and, therefore, would benefit immensely from an activity that allowed them to move easily and without pain.
