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As summer starts to wind down, think in advance about getting in shape for the different sports and forms of exercise that come with fall and school starting back up. Working out in the pool is one fantastic way to begin training while it’s still so hot out. Whether you’re rehabilitating an injury before football, or needing to build up some endurance for agrueling cross-country season, there are many amazing opportunities to train in the water.
Aquatic cross-training is growing in usage and popularity, due to its ability to accelerate performance and decelerate the risk of injury. The gravity-reduced environment in the water decreases the load on the
joints while providing resistance to work against. The use of various types of equipment makes it possible for athletes to perform many activities in the water that can improve form, strength, agility, and speed.
Studies have shown that working in the water on sport specific movements can increase coordination and body symmetry. An athlete can get in the pool and simply start going through the motions of their
sport against the resistance of the water to build strength through specific ranges of motion. It can also be beneficial to train both sides of the body
in the same ways. For example, a baseball or softball pitcher can develop better bodyalignment and symmetry by learning to and practicing pitching with their non-dominant arm. They may never pitch with that arm, but going through the motion and balancingthe body can benefit the strong arm.
Aqua jogging is another very popular form of exercise, particularly for endurance runners who need to train consistently without the impact to the joints sustained while running on land. Most runners feel strange running in the water at first, but with a little determination and coaching, it can be one of their best methods of training. Running in shallow waterprovides a reduced impact environment ideal for focusing on drills and form, while jogging or running in deep water with a buoyancy belt is perfect for building endurance withvirtually no impact to the joints.
The benefits of training in the water are countless, so try adding some water exerciseto your preseason regimen. For other training, rehabilitation, and injury preventionsuggestions or ideas, stop in and see the staff at Camelback Mountain Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation.
Camelback Mountain Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation is open Monday thru Friday (see center for hours of operation) and specializes in treatment of sports and orthopedic injuries. Monthly, their dedicated staff offers free injury assessments for Village members. A sign-up sheet will be posted at the facility.
Contact (602) 808-8989 for questions.
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