It is often said that sports practiced in water are complete activities and excellent for the entire population. Although water sports are beneficial for many reasons, certain factors should be taken into consideration.

First, it is important to define what a water sport is. These are activities and sports practiced in the water, as opposed to watercraft sports, which are practiced on the water. Swimming, diving, and water polo are examples of water sports, while kayaking, surfing, and sailing are watercraft sports.

When an aquatic activity is practiced mainly for recreational purposes, problems related to its practice are rare. As long as the person feels capable of participating and enjoys the activity, everything is generally fine. Recreational swimming and casual bathing are good examples.

Sometimes, however, the main goal becomes training rather than enjoyment. At that point, it is important to consider the elements necessary for practicing the sport safely and effectively. Examples include activities such as aqua jogging, aqua cycling, and lap swimming. Certain medical conditions may limit participation in these activities. Did you know that physicians and physiotherapists are trained to determine effective, safe, and individualized parameters for practicing aquatic sports? This is a great reason to consult the physiotherapists at Évolution clinics.

In rehabilitation, aquatic activities can also be part of treatment interventions. For example, aqua fitness or shallow-water exercise classes can help individuals with certain limitations break the cycle of inactivity often associated with conditions such as excess weight, osteoarthritis of the knees and hips, and general deconditioning.

Some properties of water make returning to activity easier:

• The body is lighter in water, which reduces the load placed on joints and muscles.
• Water provides multidirectional resistance, which helps with strengthening.
• The temperature and contact of the water can help improve blood circulation.

In light of this information, aquatic activity appears to be ideal for most people—as long as the activity is well chosen and properly dosed. The exception to this rule is when aquatic activities are used to prevent osteoporosis. Although current recommendations for cardiorespiratory exercise suggest reaching 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity physical activity, the lack of skeletal impact—such as what occurs during walking or running—does not sufficiently stimulate the bone system to prevent the loss of bone density responsible for osteoporosis, in both men and women after the age of fifty.

Therefore, it is important to vary your physical activities and look for the right type of mechanical stress that allows your body to remain strong over time.

If you need help managing your training parameters, choosing the right activity based on your goals, determining the best exercises to progress in your sport, or simply resolving issues that prevent you from fully enjoying life, you know who to contact: the physiotherapists at Évolution are here to help.

In the meantime, stay active—it’s the best remedy available!

 

Francis Caron, Physiotherapist