Chronic Conditions: Just Add (to) Water

For submission to the AKWA April/May 2016 issue: Chronic Disease & Aquatic Applications

I have dealt with sporadic bouts of low back pain for over 30 years.  During that time, I have taught swimming, led aqua group fitness, and competed in open water swimming and triathlon.  For me, being in the water is ideal when I am coping with pain.  Sitting makes me feel like my spine is compressing, resting my hands on railings or a cane makes my spine feel stretched, and there is no happy medium.  In the water, I am able to maintain in-line stabilization and take a break from the frustration of full gravity.

Although I have taught specialty classes for people with Multiple Sclerosis and Arthritis. I have led classes which included participants dealing with Diabetes, pre and post- joint replacement, pregnancy, cardiovascular conditions and a range of other challenges.  Some conditions are chronic, some are periodic, and some are short term; but for the people dealing with the conditions, aqua is great on many levels.  Being in the water offers the physical support of the water around us and the the chance to build strength, endurance, and range of motion.  

The huge factor in aqua aerobics which allows it to serve such a range of participants is exactly that:  the participants.  In specialty classes, there is a sense of community and the ability to share strategies for daily life, but the social aspect itself is what I have always heard participants rave about.  In a general classes, people with unique needs are able to connect with a larger community and share goals. Everyone is able to celebrate being in the pool together, either sharing a good day or looking forward to a better day.  

 As an instructor, my low back pain experiences have helped me relate to many people with mobility issues stemming from a range of causes.  Having something in common reduces a feeling of isolation to which impaired mobility can contribute.  At some point, we all experience some degree of pain, lack of mobility, or feeling somehow removed from those around us.  Whether it is from a chronic condition or overdoing a workout, use that experience in your classes.  Pay attention when you are having a difficult day, and notice how your motions are impacted, and how your attitude may struggle to carry you forward.  Especially, notice what helps you get through difficulties.  

I love it when people leave class feeling better than when they arrived.  Sometimes it is because of the physical activities, but sometimes it is because of the emotional support.  I am willing to accept that my personal contribution may be direct or indirect-  I just want people to feel better and move forward.