Modify your aqua fitness lesson for different populations

Aqua fitness instructors should never assume that every participant in their class have the same fitness level. Neither should they assume that older participants need a gentle workout. What they should do is to observe their participants to see what they are capable of, and teach to those capabilities. Instructors should be ready to offer options for those who want a higher intensity level as well as options for those who need a lower intensity level from the rest of the class. 

In general, older adults need a longer warm up to allow time for their joints to warm up. They should avoid jumping and they shold be offered instead low impact options. Their lesson should include movements that change direction to improve balance and coordination as well as muscular strengthening and strecthing exercises.

If the class includes men, instructors should avoid cute dance moves and use instead callisthenic-type moves such as jumping jacks and cross country ski. They choreography should be simple, and participants should do eight or more repetitions before changing to another move. Instructors should keep in mind that men usually are unwilling to participate in partner moves. Instead, offer them circuit classes with a muscular strength and endurance objective.

Quite often, participants with arthritis joins aqua classes. Many people with mild to moderate arthritis do well in regular fitness classes. Participants with moderate to severe arthritis may be better served in an arthritis class. If any instructor wants to be involved in these types of classes, they should contact the Arthritis Foundation to take their certification class.

Cardiac patients, disabled people, and rehab patients need quidance from a doctor or a physical therapist. Working with athletes requires special training. Be sure you are qualified before taking on special populations that require skills beyond those taught in a typical certification class.

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