AquaBailamos, AquaBoxing, AquaArmyInterval, AquaJogging, AquaHarmony. Aquatrain, i.e. aerobic aquatic exercise developed by the Finnish Institute of Aquatics, is of interest and on the increase all over the world.

"Aquatrain is dancing and aerobic exercising in water, which promotes health and rehabilitation. Each lesson has its own theme and feelings. In some lessons there is equipment that improves movement and brings variation," says Evaliisa Anttila, the managing director.

Aquatrain, which was launched in Finland in 2005, is spreading quickly. The productized lessons with international music and trained instructors are well known in Sweden, Germany, Belgium, the Baltic countries, Russia, China and the United States of America.

Tested and effective

Aquatrain can be practised at swimming baths, spas, and keep-fit and aerobic facilities where there are swimming pools. There are more than ten water exercise lessons.

The lessons are the result of systematic product development: a theme is chosen, original music acquired and choreography arranged. A great deal of time is also spent on testing the lessons.

Water offers numerous opportunities for pleasant and effective training. "Water is an inspirational element; people have a naturally good relationship with water from the womb. Water exercise is suited to people of all ages and all sizes," Anttila says.

Water therapy and baby swimming

Besides Aquatrain, the Finnish Institute of Aquatics offers relaxing in water, water therapy and baby swimming and is making open water swimming well known. The Institute is also developing tools and technology-based product concepts associated with the physical exercise services.

"Water therapy can be used as rehabilitation for locomotor illnesses, headaches, post-operation rehabilitation, treating sports injuries and chronic illnesses and rehabilitation for the physically handicapped," Anttila says.

"Baby swimming is increasing in interest. For example, the number of babies swimming in China is increasing rapidly. In Finland, too, 20 per cent of babies go swimming."

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The Finnish Institute of Aquatics stimulates people to move in water.