Effects Of A Water-Based Resistance Exercise

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sses without intervention, the likelihood of illness and the risk for heart disease, stroke, diabetes, osteoporosis, and some cancers increases and the ability to perform everyday tasks will begin to diminish (Heyneman, 1992). Soon climbing stairs, lifting a gallon of milk, feeding oneself, and other once routine tasks will become more difficult.
According to Sanders (2001), there are multiple causes for the muscle and joint changes that occur in the elderly. The aging process itself does play a significant role, but good nutrition and regular physical activity may slow or even prevent the course of decreased mobility as we age. Sanders contends that it is actually the lack of activity that is to blame for most of the physical deterioration in the elderly rather than the aging process itself.
Changes in muscular strength are quite significant as one ages. Heyneman (1992) points out that on average, muscle mass
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declines by 30 percent between the ages of 30 and 70. Resistance exercises focusing on muscle strength and endurance can greatly benefit the elderly population by building stronger bones and joints. According to Brody (1991), one type of resistance exercise recommended for the elderly is water-based exercise. Because the natural buoyancy of water reduces body weight by 10 percent, it eliminates pressure on the joints. “At the same time, water offers four times the resistance of air, toning and strengthening muscles through less intensive exercise” (Brody, 1991, p.65). Water is an ideal place for seniors to exercise and build their strength to improve their ability to perform daily activities, thus increasing their level of independence.

Purpose of the Study
The purpose of this study will be to determine the effects of three weekly water-based exercise routines on selected muscular strength measures on an older (ages 65+), sedentary population of men and women.

Null Hypothesis
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