Aqua exercise instructors play a vital role in promoting health and fitness in aquatic environments. When leading classes from the pool deck—as opposed to teaching in the water—the safety of both participants and instructors must be prioritized. Adhering to best-practice guidelines from AUSactive and the Aquatic Exercise Association (AEA) is essential for reducing risk and ensuring a professional, effective, and safe experience for all.
Why Deck Instruction Matters
Deck instruction is widely recommended as the preferred method for leading aquatic fitness classes, especially when there is no additional lifeguard on duty, when new participants are present, or when new movements are being introduced. Teaching from the deck allows instructors to:
- Maintain better visibility of all participants
- Respond more quickly to emergencies
- Demonstrate movements clearly and effectively
However, deck demonstration presents unique safety challenges that must be addressed to protect the instructor’s health and wellbeing.
Key Safety Considerations for Deck Instruction
1. Footwear and Impact Protection
- Pool decks are often made of hard, sometimes slippery surfaces such as tile or concrete. Demonstrating high-impact movements on these surfaces can lead to acute or overuse injuries.
- Instructors should always wear quality, supportive trainers designed for deck use. These shoes provide grip, stability, and cushioning to reduce the risk of slips, falls, and joint stress
- Using a non-skid, cushioned aqua mat further reduces impact stress on the feet and joints, especially when demonstrating jumps or high-impact moves.
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2. Use of Equipment for Safety
- Avoid full-impact demonstration whenever possible. Instead, use a sturdy chair or aqua frame to demonstrate high-impact or suspended moves. This allows instructors to show the movement without subjecting themselves to excessive strain or risk.
- Non-impact or low-impact teaching techniques are recommended to minimise injury risk.
3. Voice Protection
- Projecting the voice over pool noise and music can lead to vocal strain or long-term damage.
- Use a microphone system when available to amplify instructions without yelling. Incorporate non-verbal cues and gestures to communicate effectively and protect vocal health.
4. Hydration
- Instructors are at risk of dehydration, even when not in the water, due to exertion and environmental conditions. Dehydration can impair performance, concentration, and increase injury risk.
- Drink water before, during, and after teaching. Recommendations include consuming 500 ml of water two hours prior to a workout and hydrating consistently throughout and after the session.
5. Designated Teaching Area
- Teach from a clearly sectioned-off area on the deck. This prevents participants or bystanders from walking too close, reducing the risk of collisions and distractions.
- A dedicated space also helps manage class supervision and maintains a safe environment for all.
6. Electrical Safety
- Electrical equipment such as microphones, music systems, and fans are common on pool decks. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination.
- Ensure all electrical cords are kept well away from water sources and traffic areas to prevent tripping and electrical hazards. Use only ground fault protected outlets and never leave cords unattended or plugged in when not in use.
- Position electrical devices at least three meters from the pool edge and secure cords to avoid splash zones and walkways7.
Professional Practice and Duty of Care
Aqua Exercise Instructors (AEIs) have a legal and ethical duty of care to themselves and their participants. This includes:
- Being appropriately qualified and adhering to industry standards.
- Developing and following emergency management and risk assessment plans.
- Monitoring class size and maintaining appropriate supervision ratios (up to 40 participants for deck instruction in supervised settings).
- Regularly updating skills and maintaining physical fitness to safely demonstrate and lead classes.
Safety is paramount for aqua exercise instructors teaching from the pool deck. By following AUSactive and AEA guidelines—using proper footwear and mats, employing voice protection strategies, staying hydrated, managing electrical safety, and maintaining a dedicated teaching space—instructors can protect their own health while providing a safe, effective, and enjoyable experience for participants. Prioritising these practices upholds professional standards and ensures the continued growth and reputation of aquatic exercise programs.
References:
- Aquatic Exercise Association Standards and Guidelines
- AUSactive Aqua Exercise Guidelines
- Hydration recommendations for aquatic athletes
- Poolside electrical safety recommendations