What does hydrotherapy refer to in the context of aquatic fitness?

Hydrotherapy refers specifically to the use of water as a medium for therapeutic exercises and treatments. In the context of aquatic fitness, it involves harnessing the properties of water, such as buoyancy, resistance, and temperature, to facilitate rehabilitation and improve physical well-being. This can include gentle exercises aimed at recovery from injury, pain relief, or enhancing overall mobility and strength.

Water is especially beneficial for therapeutic purposes because it provides a low-impact environment, allowing individuals to perform exercises that might be difficult or impossible on land. The warmth of water can also help to relax muscles and promote circulation, further aiding in recovery. Thus, the focus on therapeutic exercises is what distinguishes hydrotherapy from other forms of aquatic activities that may not have a rehabilitation or therapeutic intent.