The impact of aquatic exercise training on physical and functional fitness variables (Study protocol)

Abstract

Background: The changes associated with the aging process compromise the functionality and respective autonomy of the elderly, leading to the emergence of comorbidities, including rheumatic diseases, chronic pain, obesity, sarcopenia, Alzheimer's, dementia, among others.

Goal: This protocol was specifically developed with the aim of studying the impact of water aerobics training on the physical fitness and musculoskeletal health of elderly practitioners. It includes validating physical fitness levels and sarcopenia indicators in elderly people participating in water aerobics programs and subsequently presenting an intervention proposal and implementing the “Hydrotraining” Program.

Method: All project participants will be subject to two assessment moments (baseline and after 14 weeks). Instruments: battery of tests suggested by Rickley and Jones, 1999, which are: Standing and Sitting 30’’, Time up and go, Reaching Behind the Back, Sitting and Reaching, and Handgrip Test. The inventories: Beck Depression Inventory, IPAQ and SARC-F. Inclusion criteria: individuals over 65 years old who practice Aquatic Exercise, twice a week for 45 minutes. The sample is organized into two groups: Aquatic Exercise Group (GEA) which will be subjected to the “Hydrotraining” program and Control Group (CG), which will remain in the water aerobics program, without suffering any interference.

Results: The GEA exercise protocol aims to improve strength and power with specific movements that maximize the resistance offered by the water, in a periodization with a gradual and progressive increase in load through volume. The GC program is of a community nature and includes general movement exercises, without organization and control of the training load.

Conclusions: The “Hydrotraining” Program is expected to be differentiating and promote the improvement of strength and physical fitness of its practitioners.