Welcome to the April edition of the WETS newsletter
Welcome to the April edition of the WETS newsletter: an online publication that promotes the benefits and joys of aquatic exercise for all population groups. WETS are proud to be at the forefront of aquatic fitness development - Exercise, Education, Equipment and Excellence. It is encouraging for us to hear anecdotally that the Newsletter is making a difference in a number of these areas. Thank you to those who have taken the time to email and pass on your valuable feedback. Please keep it coming so that we can provide you with the best possible service.
WETS is once again proud to support the aquatic industry by sponsoring the Aquatics and Recreation Victoria (ARV) Aqua Instructor of the Year. They are currently seeking nominations, please visit www.aquarecvic.org.au/arv_awards.htm for further information.
Introducing MATE
As an aquatic training provider, WETS is well known for its innovative approach to meeting community needs. We are now happy to introduce our latest program aquatic recreational initiative, MATE. Making Aquatics a Terrific Experience is a seminar for anyone who accompanies people with a disAbility or medical condition to the pool. The focus is on supporting and empowering you AND your 'mate' so that the aquatic experience is both positive and fun filled.
You may well know someone who would benefit from a MATE seminar and if so, please feel free to pass this information on. Alternately you can register your interest as an instructor in either the MATE program or future disAbility instructor courses at info@wets.com.au
NEW Aqua Trainer qualification - Personal Trainer Elective (Cert IV level).
People of all fitness levels and ages are potential water training clients, however, their needs, capabilities and training goals all differ. Being able to identify their requirements enables the personal trainer to create effective, safe and enjoyable training sessions.
Trainers find clientele varies greatly - these variations include; age, health, gender, previous exercise experience, personal motivation, medical status, environment and even social class can be included in the list. Therefore, personal trainers should be knowledgeable about each specific population in order to implement effective programs. One key to survive as a trainer is to do an outstanding job for your client - technical ability is worthless unless you are able to communicate with the client.
Course of the Month - Inclusive Aquatic Instructor
Seven enthusiastic instructors enrolled in the pilot IAI course at MSAC during March. The interactive curriculum for this qualification explores a framework that deepens the diversity and enhances the students' ability to create inclusive aqua classes.
The IAI course was designed in collaboration with MS Australia ACT/NSW/VIC in response to industry demand to fill the skills gap within our aquatic facilities. The course outcome is to provide instructors with the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver aqua classes for participants with neurological or mobility conditions that has now be achieved. Yeah, more classes for this population group will soon be implemented with the necessary trained staff!
Last month, the Mermaid created lots of interest and we wanted to pass on some of your feedback
"Something great for the abdominals" Simone Garrett of Seal Swim School
"I love the part telling us about new moves, so helpful to someone like myself who needs experience" Sondra
This month we feature the Tuck Ski, a move which should be in every instructor's repertoire because it is effective and can be worked at varying levels of intensity. The Tuck Ski can be demonstrated using the WETS instructor method - as a Weighted and Energetic move, in addition to a Turbulent move where the intensity levels are greatly increased or as a Suspended move, with the feet off the bottom of the pool. As with all the 'Moves' it is imperative that you experience these movement patterns in the water yourself. Experience and learning go hand in hand. Download the PDF for Move of the Month by clicking here.
Our research article of the month revolves around the versatile concept of deep-water training.
Many studies have been concerned with the transferability of deep-water running training adaptations to land-running performances, with the rehabilitation of injuries being the focus of interest. The findings in this article by Reilly, Dowzer, and Cable, entitled, The Physiology of Deep Water Running (Journal of Sport Science 2003), suggest that the transfer of physiological bene?ts to land performances does occur. The authors also mention that the heart rate response is not indicative of the intensity rate at which the participants are exercising - this is due to hydrostatic pressure lowering the heart rate. It's also great to read the confirmation that deep-water running entails a decreased spinal loading compared with running on land. The study suggests that deep water running should be included as a form of supplementary training for injured clients. If you would like a copy of the full journal article please email info@wets.com.au
With the popularity of deep water running in many aquatic facilities in 2009, WETS has responded by providing a Deep Water Instructor Update for qualified instructors. Whether you are only using the deep end of the pool for a short component of your regular aqua class or as a specific 60-minute class, this workshop will assist you to plan, prepare and perform a perfect class.
AQUA INSTRUCTOR PROFILE..
Even though we didn't receive any nominations for instructor of the month, we don't want the opportunity to go past without officially acknowledging someone or in this case a number of people. We take the liberty to nominate... (even though they are not eligible for the prize of a voucher for a complimentary update according to the small print in their employment contracts!!)
Stacey Dolliver and Melissa Cameron
Stacey and Melissa are relatively new in the Aqua Exercise field and are to be congratulated as they have been accepted to present at the prestigious fitness convention FILEX, which will be held next month - April, at Darling Harbour, Sydney. Their workshop presentation entitled Aqua Balance, incorporates a blend of strength, stability and core work. Devised from a variety of wellbeing practices, their workshop promises practical techniques that can be applied to leave your participants rejuvenated and most importantly 'balanced'. The staff at WETS wish them well as they experience the challenge of breaking new ground and bridge the gap between instructing and presenting. If you are attending Filex be sure and 'catch' their session. Fortunately, Stacey and Melissa have also agreed to show off their 'wares' here in Melbourne later in the year as an instructor workshop. Theirs is a great concept. Stay tuned for further details.
If you would like to nominate yourself or a fellow instructor for this award, email info@wets.com.au letting us know (max 250 words) the reason for your nomination. Don't forget, Aqua Instructor of the month receives a voucher for complimentary participation in a WETS workshop for 2009! We look forward to hearing from you.
Aqua Moves 1
Looking for some more aqua moves?
Our instructional DVD, Aqua Moves 1, which was launched at the Aqua Summit last year, is a great source of movement ideas. In all, 23 Aqua Exercise movements are featured with expert coaching points for each. This resource will be particularly useful if you are a new to this field. Purchasing Aqua Moves 1 will enable you to remember and refresh your basic movement repertoire and remove the stress associated with brain overload. Although the AquaFrame is featured in the DVD, it is not essential to purchase this the Frame in order to maximize this useful, user friendly resource. We have had some great feedback from our AquaMoves 1 DVD.
Hi Jen,
"Watched the WETS DVD yesterday. Just a quick one to say congrats and well done to you and Melissa. Looks good. A very helpful resource for instructors. Waiting now for the next instalment" ....Lorraine Slorach
AquaFrame
If the facility where you instruct has purchased a WETS AquaFrame, part of our commitment to you is to help you maintain this resource so that it serves you well. You can also purchase a spare parts pack to 'refurbish' your Aqua Frame if it has been well loved!
Easy Preventative Maintenance tips to ensure a long steps WETS AquaFrame life
- The aqua instructor wipes down the WETS AquaFrame with a dry towel/cloth after each class
- Keep the AquaFrame clear of the 'hosing down' process at the end of the day.
- Routine cleaning (approx once a month) wash with soap or a mild detergent and warm water.
- An enhanced appearance will be achieved if the cleaned surface is finally wiped dry.
- If you've had staining or scratching, a stainless steel cleaner may be a good option. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and towel dry.
Don't have a WETS AquaFrame - why not? Read about the benefits on our Website and review past newsletters for the aqua moves that can be delivered easily and safely when using the WETS AquaFrame! Let's dive in as we continue to make the most of our aquatic environment.
