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Program changes and updates
Over the past year, significant changes and improvements to the Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program and the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program have taken place. These changes will offer our participants an enhanced fitness program, while retaining the evidence-based status of these National programs.
Now that the new materials are available, we will begin implementing these changes at our training workshops for new leaders as well as begin the process of recertifying existing leaders and trainers. Please note existing leaders do not need to undergo additional training until they are due to be recertified. You may elect to recertify earlier, however, to obtain a new manual.
Here are just a few of the changes:
EXERCISE
- More user-friendly manuals with improved exercise graphics and lesson plans
- Renewed focus on ensuring that every class includes the essential program elements
- Changes in exercises based on input from our leaders in the field and information about safer alternatives
- Clarified use of equipment such as resistance bands and weights
- Other new and improved resources including lesson plans, health education lessons, shorter relaxation scripts, balance activities and more
AQUATIC
- More user-friendly manuals with improved exercise graphics and lesson plans
- Deep Water program is now integrated into the core program and so there is no longer a separate manual or training
- Some resistance equipment has been added such as kickboards, noodles, flotation belts
- To reduce liability risk to our participants, swim qualifications and water rescue/safety requirements have been added
- New water temperature criteria
We appreciate your patience as we work through this process. For more specific information, please call the Chapter office and ask for Programs Coordinator, Mary Jo Peters, 651-917-3056 ext. 125.
