How does compression in water help lower your heart rate?

Compression in water effectively aids in lowering heart rate primarily by decreasing the venous load to the heart. When immersed in water, the hydrostatic pressure creates a compressive effect on the body. This pressure pushes blood from the extremities back towards the core and heart, enhancing venous return. As the heart receives a more optimized volume of blood, it can work more efficiently.

The decrease in venous return or load means that the heart doesn’t have to pump as forcefully or rapidly to maintain adequate circulation, which leads to a lowered heart rate. This physiological response is beneficial during aquatic exercise as it helps to manage exertion levels and promotes cardiovascular efficiency while minimizing stress on the heart.

Understanding the impact of hydrostatic pressure and venous return is critical for aquatic fitness professionals, as it informs how to structure aquatic workouts for various populations, including those with specific health considerations like cardiovascular concerns.