Poolwork
Water training and therapy have been used since ancient civilizations. We harness the unique properties of water for strength development, active recovery, and accelerated rehabilitation.
Resistance in every direction.
From a training perspective, strength is developed as the athlete is constantly required to work against resistance in any range of motion and in multiple planes of movement. Muscles and joints are therefore strengthened in multiple ranges and planes of movement.
In addition, water demands fluid movement in order to generate velocity. Coordinated, simultaneous contraction of the agonist and relaxation of the antagonist is therefore key.
The Poolwork Program is ballistic in nature -- athletes therefore also utilize the stretch-shortening muscle cycle that ultimately leads to the ability to produce maximal force in a cyclical movement.
Gavin Macmillan with athlete
Poolside training session
Heal faster, return stronger.
As there is minimal load or weight bearing on the joints, water therapy can be introduced early in the rehabilitation process. In addition, the weight of the limbs is supported by the water, which allows an athlete to continue to move an injured body part through full range of motion.
Pressure from water on soft tissue has also been shown to reduce pain and swelling and promote muscle relaxation.
Various studies have shown that, compared to passive methods (massage, ice bath, compressive therapy etc.), active recovery in water after training significantly lowers fatigue and delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS) and improves physical recovery.