18 | Akwa | December 2022 / January 2023 / February 2023 the effectiveness of these exercises. For example, hydrostatic pressure allows the receptors of the proprioceptive system to be stimulated more than on land, allowing for greater aware- ness when moving. Combining the two systems can closely mimic motor functions essential for many ADLs, such as car- rying objects, transfers, climbing stairs, etc. (Bordner 2011). Aside from this, the visual system is an aspect that can easily incorporate into exercise. Not only can the visual system be used to train hand-eye coordination, but simply opening/ closing the eyes can make it more difficult for the vestibular and proprioceptive systems to maintain balance, eliciting a greater training response. Safely Exercising – The Main Significance Decreased self-confidence to perform activities of daily liv- ing is one of the main issues individuals who experience a fall have. Since they may be afraid of falling, they are also hesitant to train for fall prevention, thus increasing their risk rather than proactively addressing it through exercise. In the aquatic setting, this fear of falling tends to diminish, allow- ing them to confidently perform balance, strengthening, and range-of-motion exercises to offer greater stability and confi- dence out of the water. Water immersion can decrease weight-bearing by up to 70%, and floatation devices can reduce this even fur- ther (Bulstrode 1992). Additionally, water provides a con- stant resistance when moving through it; turbulence can be adjusted to increase or decrease exercise intensity. By increasing aquatic turbulence, the individual works harder to remain stable, targeting the core muscles and motor func- tion. Water’s drag resistance activates the agonist and antag- onist muscles during a single movement pattern. Utilize the aquatic properties to effectively train components respon- sible for dynamic equilibrium, eliciting proper posture/gait and efficient motor function and awareness (Kim, Kim, Lee 2015). These areas can work together to decrease fall risk for those with balance issues and help them perform ADL skills in a safer, more efficient manner. Balance and gait are very closely connected and enhanced through simple activities such as water walking. Try person- alizing intensity by using floatation assistive devices, turbu- lence, or resistance paddles. In this example, locomotion through the water will train the body’s muscular strength and range of motion while also decreasing pressure on the joints, resulting in a more effective gait pattern/posture. In addi- tion, incorporating head and limb movement can increase dynamic motor training of the brain systems, targeting bal- ance and gait simultaneously. Get Confident! Get Moving! Get Consistent! Training balance and gait will allow individuals to get up and get moving. Providing a safe training environment is Get a Quote & Apply Online! www.cphins.com/aea Liability Insurance 711 S. Dearborn St., Suite 205 Chicago, IL 60605 Phone: 800-875-1911 AEA Endorsed Liability Insurance for Aqua Fitness Instructors CPH & Associates • Occurrence form coverage • First aid and medical payment coverage • Premises liability • Optional general liability and additional insureds • No phone menus: You’ll connect with a licensed agent Program Benefits Rates starting at $82/year 50% part-time employment status credit 50% newly licensed or certified professional credit Premium Credits:
