Pool Exercise for EDS
I am always looking for ways to safely exercise with lower risk of EDS flare-ups. I am motivated to try pool exercise this year. In the past, I have tried the “Water Aerobics” classes for seniors, and have found the movements are too repetitive for me. They sometimes use resistance “water weights” which pull my joints out, or jogging belts which tend to aggravate and shift my ribs. I tried these formal classes, but I did not continue because of injuries. I need to find out what movements in the water are safe for me.
I was thrilled to find this information on the topic, written by an EDSer:
You can build a Water Healing Workout that protects the injured body part form further harm, while the rest of the body continues to train. Standing in chest-deep water, you weigh only 10% of your normal body weight, so every exercise is low impact.
I noticed results right away. I expected to be sore, but I wasn’t. I had less pain in my joints after the first workout. More important was the sense of accomplishment I felt. Wow! I could actually exercise without joint dislocation; something I hadn’t been able to do in years. Over the months of water training, I have noticed that my joints are getting stronger and even though I continue to have dislocations, they are not as traumatic and not as frequent. The water offers me a soothing affect after any dislocation, and helps lessen the pain. I am now in better shape.
Water Running. Keep your chest and head erect. Shoulders are relaxed and down. Knees lift to 90 degrees while the arms pull forward and back with no lateral movement. Hands are relaxed with the thumbs towards the sky. Pull the elbows back, each in its turn, and touch each hand into an imaginary pocket… Read more
This article gave a first-hand account of an EDSers experience with water exercise. It links to additional resources I can read as I pursue my water exercise program. What I found most beneficial was the detailed instructions on how to safely Water-Walk and Water-Run.
I am a non-swimmer and never liked the water when I was younger, but now I look forward to the relaxation it gives. Have fun in the pool. It gives a sense of freedom that EDSers cannot experience anywhere else. It takes the “weight of your limbs” off of your joints and gives them a much-deserved break. Happy Water Days!
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