see Mark's previous Archived Motivator Articles


All conscientious aquatic fitness instructors occasionally fret over choreography and worry whether their transitions from move to move are safe and appropriate. The first time that I presented at IAFC I recall being afraid that a chorus of instructors would suddenly shout out “BAD TRANSITION,” and then a giant hook would emerge to give me the bum’s rush off the deck. Fortunately that didn’t happen!
 
Well we can finally rest at ease because AEA has added in a new segment regarding transitions in their recently updated Aquatic Fitness Professional Manual. The new segment gives clarity and definition to transitions by describing them in three categories; basic, intermediate and advanced.
 
At IAFC 2006 I will be presenting Smooth H20 Transitions, a shallow choreography skills workshop. The session’s lecture will detail the new chapter objective on transitions and review the specifics of the three categories. The choreography in the practical pool application is designed to highlight all three categories and demonstrate how the use of certain transitions can enhance fluidity and increase stability challenges and workout intensity.
 
In general, I prefer to construct aquatic choreography with lots of alternating one-footed transitions. I rely heavily on single footed moves in threes (single, single, double) and syncopated lead changes to make this possible. Why one-footed? Ask a land instructor why they prefer tapless step and the answer will usually have something to do with fluidity and flow.
 
Removing the neutral bounce in aquatic choreography is similar to removing the tap down in step aerobics. A neutral landing or bounce is an aquatic fitness instructor’s best friend. It can simplify your routine by getting you to any other move and it also provides more stability and balance for de-conditioned students. If it is so great why on earth would you want to remove it? Do you have to? Absolutely not!
 
Experienced instructors and students with more confidence and skill often prefer a routine that flows more freely. It is hard to describe, but a routine filled with two-footed or neutral landings will have more of a stop and stutter feel to it; while a class comprised of more alternating one footed transitions tends to enhance flow and rhythm. My students will often tell me that they feel like they are dancing in the water.
 
Beyond fluidity and flow, understanding transitions more clearly can help you to increase or decrease the intensity and challenge of your aquatic fitness class. As outlined in the new manual, an intermediate transition will generally involve a one-footed to two-footed move and require more coordination and core strength to maintain safe alignment.
An advanced transition will often feature a change in plane or impact level and requires even greater control and strength to pass through the transition safely. Advanced transitions are meant to be challenging and are designed to serve the needs of more athletic or fit students.
 
Learning the difference between basic, intermediate and advanced transitions will help you to provide multi-level programming in your classes. Proving options to all of your students insures big classes and makes you a very popular instructor!
 
If you have not purchased a copy of the new manual (released in September 2005), I would highly recommend doing so! The manual is an updated collection of aquatic fitness knowledge that every instructor should possess. Reviewing the updated manual is a perfect way to re-invent your classes and yourself in 2006. If you are a visual learner - there is always the Smooth H20 Transitions DVD!
 
In Smooth H20 Transitions, I will focus on basic one- footed transitions, as well as intermediate and advanced transitions. My goal is to create smooth sailing in a neutral free zone! The focus on basic one-footed transitions will promote that ethereal dance-like feeling, while the addition of intermediate and advanced transitions will ratchet up the intensity and challenge. 
 
This session is intended for more experienced instructors who are looking to elevate their class to a new level. It is also ideal for those instructors who simply want a better understanding of transitions and how they should be taught in class.
 
Are intermediate and advanced transitions appropriate for everyone? No! Can you show all of your students intermediate and advanced options after you have taught the basic level? Yes!
 
Show your students options and trust them to choose wisely. Don’t hide challenges from your students because you assume they can’t or shouldn’t do it. Let them decide! Senior citizens have lived a long life and have made countless decisions regarding their safety and welfare. I highly doubt they will choose YOUR class to suddenly make a horrific error in judgment! 
 
Oh boy! Don’t get me started on that! Better yet, stop by my OTHER session at IAFC 2006 - The Perfect Class. You read the article; now hear the fun and inspiring lecture! Learn how to create the perfect class – an amazing hour where the cosmic forces of fitness unite to electrify the music, the moves and the mood! The routine goes smoothly, the students behave and you actually feel like you made a difference. Is this possible? You bet! Stop by and discover the magic in Orlando!

Stay Fit and Motivated!
Mark

back to top