Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program (AFAP)

About the program: The Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program (AFAP) is a community-based, group program that uses a variety of water-based exercises to increase physical activity among adults with arthritis.
- AFAP is offered in some YMCAs and by other community organizations.
- Note: Participants do not need to know how to swim to participate in AFAP.
Objectives:
To increase:
- Range of motion.
- Muscle strength.
- Moderate intensity endurance.
- Day to day function.
- Self-confidence.
- Self-care behaviors.
To reduce:
- Fatigue.
- Pain.
- Stiffness.
Target Audience:
- Adults with arthritis.
- Older adults.
Key Activities:
- Range of motion exercises.
- Muscle strengthening exercises.
- Optional moderate intensity endurance exercises.
- Socialization activities.
Setting: Community/ Group-based workshop.
Suggested class size: No more than 20 participants.
Duration: One hour, 2-3 times a week, for 6-10 weeks.
Cost:
- Participant cost: Varies.
- Leader/ Host Cost:
- Training fees range from $99 to $129. Learn more about becoming an AFAP leaderexternal icon.
- Participant manuals for each participant are $2.30 per person.
- Other materials for participants as needed.
- Note: The Aquatic Exercise Association offers trainings for both the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program and the Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program or just the exercise program.
Program Requirements:
- One Arthritis Foundation certified instructor per class who must commit to teaching at least one class series per year. Learn more about becoming an AFAP leaderexternal icon.
- Instructors must take Arthritis Foundation training, and must be re-certified every two years.
- Instructor must have CPR certification and be able to swim.
- The facility must have either a lifeguard or water safety certification (water safety or lifeguard certification may be available from the Y).
- No license is required, but class must take place in a facility or organization that has a cosponsor agreement with the Arthritis Foundation.
- Physical requirements: a warm swimming pool (83-90 degrees), water should go to at least shoulder level, pool must meet state pool safety requirements.
- Option exercise equipment: Flotation belts or vests, kickboards, noodles or noodle bars, webbed gloves, upper body trainers, paddles.
More Information: