Aquatic Exercise Association

Intermediate / 2.0 credit hours

(Classroom Viewing Time: 2 hours) 

Faculty: David Berry, PhD, AT, ATC, ATRIC


COURSE DESCRIPTION: Land-based plyometrics (LPT) is a popular activity used to improve athletic performance. It is considered a high-intensity conditioning program and consists of explosive exercises that require muscles to adapt rapidly from eccentric to concentric contractions. Research has shown that athletes who use plyometric exercises are better able to increase acceleration, vertical-jump height, leg strength, joint awareness, and overall proprioception. Plyometric programs have also been correlated to musculoskeletal injuries and delayed-onset muscle soreness because of the high-intensity and compression forces on the joints and muscles. However, aquatic plyometric training (APT) may reduce this potential while still improving performance. 

Aquatic plyometric training is not a new concept, but it has recently become more popular, mostly because of the potential to decrease injuries compared with land plyometric contractions by decreasing impact forces on the joints. Aquatic settings are beneficial not only for rehabilitation but also for conditioning because of the unique properties of water, specifically, buoyancy and resistance resulting from its viscosity.

With the popularity of aquatic exercise growing in terms of both injury rehabilitation and performance training, many practitioners are transitioning land-based activities to the water. However, many practitioners are adapting land-based plyometric and running training programs to the aquatic environment without examining the evidence. This session will examine the current scientific evidence for, application of and effects of land-based vs. aquatic-based plyometric and running training programs.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

1. Identify the phases of a plyometric training program. 
2. Determine the function of a plyometric training program from a land and aquatic based perspective.
3. Assess the goals and benefits of an aquatic plyometric training program vs. a land-based plyometric training program.
4. Examine current scientific evidence to determine the effectiveness and efficacy of land vs. aquatic based plyometric training especially as they are related to patient-oriented and disease-oriented outcomes.
5. Describe how to design and implement an aquatic plyometric training program including training procedures, equipment, and safety concerns.
6. Demonstrate some of the training techniques and procedures that may be utilized.

FACULTY: David C. Berry, PhD, AT, ATC, ATRIC, is a Professor, Athletic Training Program Director at SVSU, and author (Emergency Trauma Management for Athletic Trainers). He serves as an active member of the Board of Certification, American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Committee, and the Sports Education Council (Michigan Cardiovascular Institute) educating the community and professionals on emergency planning and sudden cardiac awareness.