Another version of interval training in the pool is always welcomed, right? I love reading ideas, stealing the format and exercises to use in my classes, and using templates while sometimes changing small things. I am sure that all of us do. Many years ago, I saw a version of this interval, and the credit goes to the Dutch Train trainers, for providing this example. Before we go there, let’s first consider some questions. Can you define interval training, and how many formats are you aware of? What is a good work-to-recov- ery ratio? What types of exercises should be included? Is intensity important? You may feel unsure of the answers to these questions, be intrigued to learn more, or want to dive deeper into your education. Interval training is one of the hardest topics to fully understand, yet it is easy to use the protocols and just go with them. Well, here you go. Take One, Add One, Repeat Some – as basic as an interval format can be, and you are welcome to start using it in your classes. You can do research but for now, let’s stay focused - we are teachers and achievers who can get very creative. So, let’s start from a very easy point of beginning: ABC is as easy as 1,2,3. Can you crack the code? A B C, B C D, C D E, D E F, E F G, F G H … 1 2 3 4, 2 3 4 5, 3 4 5 6, 4 5 6 7, 5 6 7 8 … There are two different sequences, yet they are almost the same. It is not about the outcome; it is about the process. Do you see it? Did you find it easy? Just to make sure: The first sequence has three exercises every time; the first one is dropped, two are repeated, and a new one is added. In the second sequence, there are four exercises; the first one is dropped, three are repeated, and a new one is added. Now just put different exercises for each letter or each number and you have your- self a new workout or segment of your class. The biggest difference between the two codes is that it is harder to remember four exercises than it is to remember three. Yes, you can also go to 5 exercises (if you can still coach the exercises tech- nique and form while remembering the sequence yourself!) Do you need rest after the new addition? Add it. Choose the exercise time wisely as well. Possible 30 or 45 seconds. Which exercises do you include? Symmetrical bilateral options are best as that will ensure even training on both sides of the body. Write them down, print them out, make a flip over sheet, draw pictures, whatever tools will assist you. Change the order for another class and have a new sequence. Change the work effort and you have a different goal to crush. So many easy changes with this format. Just go through the exercises one by one using the code: take one, add one, repeat some! AUTHOR Katrien Lemahieu is one of AEA’s amazing IAFTC 2023 Presenters. Click here to find out more about Katrien and the sessions she is offering. Take One, Add One, Repeat Some By Katrien Lemahieu Pediatric Handling By Julia Meno Aquatics can be a fun, exploratory, and sensory-motor-rich environment for children, especially when the instructor or therapist applies correct handling skills. Pediatric handling skills create the positions, sensations, and lever lengths for attainable mus- cular recruitment and sensory integra- tion. In addition, the handling skills of the child should provide safety and stability to offer security. The hand or equipment position on the child creates the surface for the action, reaction, or inhibition. Where the practitioner places their tactile cues will affect the child’s sense of proprio- ception and orientation in relation to aquatic activity. The handling positions can facilitate movement throughout a neuromuscular chain or inhibit overac- tive or synergistic movement. It can be beneficial for all aquatic practitioners to experience the place- ment of a partner’s hand or equipment and how it affects their balance in the water. A proximal hand-hold exam- ple: when trying to supine float, your partner places their supporting hand on the upper back instead of place- ment at the sacrum – how does this affect your ability to float? For many, placing the hand on the upper back will cause the legs to sink. 42 | Akwa | March / April / May 2023
