Aquatic Fitness Equipment
Aquatic fitness programs are also called hydrotherapy. It is the process of building strength, flexibility and proper body function using water in pools and tubs. However, aquatic fitness equipment is more suited for pools with enough room to fit a person, a trainer and the equipment itself.
What Is Aquatic Fitness Equipment?
Aquatic fitness equipment is mainly used in the water, which means they have to be waterproof, buoyant and chlorine-resistant. They can either be made out of foam or inflatable PVC. Some are designed to help you float, while others are made to weigh you down such as pool weights. Here are some common examples of types of aquatic exercise equipment you can find:
- Aqua Dumbbells
- Abdominal Float Belts
- Arm Water Weights
- Ankle Water Weights
- Abdominal Water Weights
What Types of Exercises Can You Do Using Aquatic Equipment?
The exercises done in the pool are quite different from those done in the gym. First off, the centre of gravity is not easier to manage in water. The direction of the exercises are also supposed to oppose the force of the water. To give you an idea, here is what you can do using aquatic exercise equipment:
- Use water barbells to increase arm strength under water. This is done by pulling the barbells down instead of lifting them up. The buoyancy of the water will give more force to the water dumbbells, which are lightweight.
- You can also jog with additional pool weights like arm and ankle cuffs. This helps increase the strength of your lower limbs, while allowing the water to add more resistance.
- Floatation belts are designed to help you with your balance. You can also do balancing exercises without the float belts as soon as you grow stronger.
How Should You Store Your Aquatic Fitness Equipment?
Unlike regular gym equipment, aquatic fitness equipment does not need to be oiled, buffed or lubricated. This type of equipment requires proper cleaning and storage using tools that are meant for swimming equipment. Here is how you do it:
- After using the equipment, wipe off any dirt or residue and let them air dry.
- Do not let them dry too long in the sun or else the material will become brittle, which leads to degradation.
- Once they are dry, store the equipment in a cool dry place before using again.