Underwater treadmills have gained a lot of popularity in recent years. They can be used by everyone: some elite athletes use underwater treadmills to reach the peak of their sport; they are also used by older adults, for hydrotherapy, and for the purpose of losing weight.
BENEFITS OF UNDERWATER TREADMILL TRAINING
- Promotes early range of motion
- Initiates gait training in a low-impact environment
- Replicates the proper biomechanics of land-based movements to improve gait patterns
- Improves cardiovascular stamina
- Increases flexibility
- Impacts muscle strengthening
- Increases healing and strengthening of injured tissue
- Increases the ability to perform a wide range of plyometrics
- Reduces blood pressure levels
- Reduces joint stiffness
Cross Training
Professional athletes are gravitating toward treadmill pools for cardiovascular and strength training. For runners, the underwater treadmill mimics the setting of a land-based environment while reducing the stress of body weight on joints and providing resistance.
Older Adults
For older adults, the benefits of underwater treadmill therapy include improved muscle strength and flexion, reduced pain and joint stiffness as well as increased confidence in performing exercises and activity.
Weight Loss
Studies have demonstrated that regardless of diet, aquatics yield significant gains in aerobic capacity and reduce weight and body fat. Thanks to the buoyancy and comfort offered by warm water surroundings, treadmill pool exercises are also more enjoyable and inspiring for adults with weight problems.
