Interval aquatic training with and without progression of relative intensity on health outcomes of adults and elderly: a pragmatic trial-Floripa aquatic training and health outcomes (FATHO)

Aquatic training in the upright position is known as an effective strategy for promoting healthy aging; however, there remains a lack of clarity in prescribing and periodizing these workouts. This study aimed to assess the effects of a 12-week aerobic training in the upright position, comparing groups with and without intensity progression in adults and elderly.

An uncontrolled pragmatic trial (RBR-2txw8zy) was conducted with participants aged 30–80, engaging in hydrogymnastics and deep-water running, divided into progression (PG) and non-progression (NG) groups. The program comprised 4 mesocycles, conducted 3 times a week, with 50-min sessions. PG varied intensity, starting with RPE of 11–13 and progressing to RPE 13–17, while NG maintained constant intensity (RPE 11–15). Functional fitness, muscle power, anthropometric measures, hemodynamic variables, and quality of life were assessed before and after the intervention. Internal and external loads parameters also were evaluated. Student’s t test for baseline group differences and GEE for intervention effects and training load comparison were used.

Post-intervention, improvements, and maintenance were observed in 30-s chair-stand test and muscle power for NG and PG, respectively. Both groups reduced 8UG time, improved performance in the 6MWT, decreased BP, and maintained anthropometric measures and quality of life.

Irrespective of intensity progression, aquatic training in the vertical position proved effective in maintaining and improving health outcomes in adults and elderly.