Guidelines for physical activity in swimming pools
It is estimated that there are over one million registered swimming pools in Spain, of which 7% are community pools , according to 2022 data from the Federation of Swimming Pool Business Associations (ASOFAP). We therefore have more than 88,000 community pools with high potential as venues for physical activities that benefit the physical, mental, and social health of the public.
There is ample scientific evidence on the benefits of physical exercise, regardless of where it is practiced. However, the aquatic environment has some unique characteristics that make it particularly beneficial for people with physical, intellectual, or psychosocial disabilities.
Pool exercises help improve cardiovascular endurance, motor coordination, and muscle and joint strength. Water also allows for low-impact activity. The aquatic environment promotes relaxation and tranquility, contributing to overall well-being. Using a shared space is also an excellent opportunity to connect and interact with others in our community.
What should therapeutic physical activity in swimming pools be like?
According to the Guide for Prescribing Physical Activity in the Aquatic Environment , prepared by the Sant Joan de Déu Health Park , with the support of Fluidra , the Fluidra Foundation and Sant Joan de Déu Solidarity , there are different key elements to consider when designing an activity in the aquatic environment to ensure that participants perform safe and effective exercises and movements under the supervision of trained professionals.
Before the activity
It is important that the facility's professional team assess the person's physical condition, as well as any difficulties or limitations, during the first session. The goal is to adapt the exercises to each participant's needs.
Characteristics of the activity
- It is recommended that the activity last between 45 minutes and 1 hour per session.
- The ideal frequency is one or two sessions per week.
- The intensity of the activity should be adapted to the group. It begins with a low or moderate intensity, which is gradually increased as the sessions progress.
- The structure of the activity should include: warm-up, mobility and activation, main part of the activity and stretching.
- The planned exercises can be individual, in pairs, or in groups.
- The use of music is recommended for the design of the activities, with variety and different rhythms that allow playing with the intensity.
- Playful concepts can be included in the session, since games promote cooperation, teamwork, and group cohesion.
- There are various elements you can use in the design of the activities: dumbbells, paddles, balls, boards, pool noodles or pool mattresses.
The aquatic environment allows for the development of different types of activities of varying intensity, in addition to swimming. The most common activities are:
- Aquagym, which includes aerobic exercises.
- Aquafitness, which includes more intense activities such as running in the water, pedaling on submerged bicycles, or practicing boxing movements.
- Resistance exercises with boards.
- Stretching and relaxation activities, such as water yoga or floating and relaxation.
- Recreational activities, from water polo to water volleyball, for example.
These tips are part of the Guide for Prescribing Physical Activity in Aquatic Environments from the Thalassa Project . This research project, conducted by the Research Unit of the Sant Joan de Déu Health Park, evaluated the impact of physical activity in aquatic environments on people with severe mental health disorders over two years in various municipalities in the Barcelona area.
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