B8981 - ATTIVITÀ TECNICO PRATICHE DI ESERCIZIO ACQUATICO

Learning outcomes

Students will gain expertise in adapted aquatic exercise, understanding the objectives and benefits of aquatic exercise for special populations. They will learn to identify advantages, contraindications, and precautions, and design adapted aquatic exercise programs for individuals with specific motor, mental, and motivational needs. They will be able to evaluate and monitor aquatic activity using analytical tools and program personalized activities. They will delve into specific methodologies for special populations, integrating multidisciplinary knowledge for effective and safe interventions.

Course contents

The practical activities aim to integrate theoretical knowledge with real-world applications of exercise in aquatic environments. The program is structured into three main thematic areas:

Mechanics of Movement in Water

Study and measurement of the biomechanical characteristics of aquatic exercise, with direct comparison to land-based environments.

• Muscle activation:

  1. Aquatic bike vs land-based bike

  2. Aquatic exercises vs dryland exercises

• Drag:
  Walking in water vs walking on land (with or without resistance)

• Propulsion:
  Propulsive force generation during suspended vertical movement in water

• Hydrostatic buoyancy:
  Underwater weighing using a load cell

• Floating and balance:
  Variation in buoyancy across different body positions

• Aquatic equipment:
  Influence of various aquatic devices and equipment on key exercise parameters

Physiological Responses to Exercise in Water

Analysis and measurement of the body’s acute physiological responses during exercise in water, compared to dryland activity.

• Energy responses during aquatic exercise:
  Incremental test on aquatic bike vs dryland bike with breath-by-breath oxygen consumption analysis

• Cardiovascular effects:
  Heart rate and blood pressure variations during static immersions in different postures and water temperatures

Perception, Motor Control, and Aquatic Exercise Programming

Assessment and measurement of perceived exertion, movement efficiency, and the practical application of functional exercises in water.

• Perceived effort:
  Evaluation of perceived exertion during aquatic exercises at different movement speeds

• Subjective evaluation:
  Individual perception sheets and qualitative assessments of performance

• Functional exercise trials:
  Practical exploration of aquatic exercises aimed at specific goals (strength, endurance, functional recovery, mobility, etc.)

Readings/Bibliography

The slides used during the theoretical lectures will be provided and made available, and they will include the topics covered during the practical sessions.

Students can also use the following books to consolidate or deepen the topics covered:

• Brody, L. T., & Geigle, P. R. (Eds.). (2009). Aquatic Exercise for Rehabilitation and Training. Human Kinetics.
• Lepore, M., Gayle, G. W., & Stevens, S. F. (2007). Adapted Aquatics Programming: A Professional Guide, 2nd ed. Human Kinetics.
• Layne, M. (2015). Water Exercise. Human Kinetics.
• Wilk, K., & Joyner, D. (2024). The Use of Aquatics in Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Rehabilitation and Physical Conditioning. Taylor & Francis.

Teaching methods

Pool-based practical sessions are scheduled and will be conducted through three integrated formats, designed to develop technical skills, observational abilities, and critical thinking:

• Individual demonstration sessions: One student at a time performs a demonstration using a specific tool or protocol, while the rest of the group observes and analyzes. This approach promotes active observation and the integration of theory and practice.

• Group-based sessions: Students are divided into small groups and work independently on structured tasks, including data collection, shared reflection, and preparation of summary reports.

• Collective sessions: All students take part simultaneously in hands-on water-based activities, directly experiencing exercises and motor tasks, often in a collaborative format.

Considering the teaching methods and activities, it is mandatory for all students to attend Module 1 and 2 [https://www.unibo.it/en/services-and-opportunities/health-and-assistance/health-and-safety/online-course-on-health-and-safety-in-study-and-internship-areas] online and Module 3 on occupational health and safety. Information Information about Module 3 attendance schedule is available on the degree programme website.

Assessment methods

The final exam, integrated with the theoretical component, will consist of a written paper-based test comprising three open-ended questions aimed at assessing the student's level of understanding and depth of knowledge. The exam will have a duration of 60 minutes.

Teaching tools

Active learning phases and competency-based teaching strategies will be incorporated, along with self-assessment strategies to support student participation in the learning process

Office hours

See the website of Matteo Cortesi