Rehabilitation in water – using the Halliwick concept in working with people with disabilities

Abstract

This study discusses the impact of water rehabilitation on the functioning of people with various disabilities. The focus was on the benefits of therapy in this environment and the so-called Halliwick concept – one of the forms of water exercises based on fun, cooperation and healthy competition. This method is used both in working with healthy people and with disabilities, without age restrictions. It brings a whole range of benefits both related to the physical condition, e.g. improving posture, increasing the body’s efficiency and muscle strength, but also to the mental condition, because it leads to the participant’s sense of independence, development of interpersonal contacts, building trust, increasing independence and, as a result, – the experience of contentment, satisfaction and success. The Halliwick Method is exceptionally valuable because it does not focus on the barriers associated with a specific disability, but on the capabilities and skills of each swimmer. The following work also reviews existing empirical reports that confirm the positive impact of rehabilitation in the aquatic environment on the human body.