What is a significant factor for caloric expenditure during aquatic fitness training?

In aquatic fitness training, resistance of water is a significant factor for caloric expenditure. Water is denser than air, which means that any movement through water requires more energy than the same movement would require on land. As participants perform exercises in water, they must exert greater force to overcome this resistance, leading to higher caloric expenditure. This principle is a fundamental aspect of resistance training, where the challenge of the environment directly impacts the intensity and effectiveness of the workout.

While endurance, time spent in the water, and form are also important in the overall effectiveness and efficiency of a workout, they do not directly relate to the inherent mechanics of how resistance impacts energy expenditure in aquatic environments. Therefore, understanding the role of water resistance is crucial for maximizing the benefits of aquatic fitness training.