ROLE: To conduct training workshops to prepare individuals to be Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program leaders and instructors.
QUALIFICATIONS:
1. To be eligible to attend a Train-the-Trainer Workshop, applicants must:
• Meet the qualifications of an Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program Instructor, including the leader swim skill requirements (swim 25 yards, float or tread water, perform recovery position etc.); CPR certification; and YMCA, Red Cross or other nationally recognized lifeguard or water safety/ rescue certification. First aid certification is strongly recommended.
• Meet the Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program Instructor certification requirements (including successfully completing the instructor training workshop, teaching at least six one-hour Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program classes within six months of the training workshop and submission of participant data to the Arthritis Foundation).
• Actively taught the Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program classes (i.e., class sessions twice a week for at least six months and preferably twelve months).
• Obtain approval and recommendation by the local Arthritis Foundation chapter.
2. Certification as an Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program Trainer requires:
• Successful completion of an Arthritis Foundation Train-the-Trainer workshop.
• Teaching at least one instructor training workshop within one year and preferably within six months of training in collaboration with the Arthritis Foundation and submission of workshop data.
• To maintain certification, completion of one workshop per year and participation in any manual/course updates is required. It is also strongly recommended that trainers teach at least six class sessions per year, submit this course data and participate in other trainer recertification training and continuing education opportunities as they are made available through the Arthritis Foundation.
BriefDescription:
The Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program combines buoyancy of water and the soothing warmth of a heated pool to make a safe, ideal environment for relieving arthritis pain and stiffness. Gentle movements used in the program increase joint flexibility and range of motion, while restoring or maintaining muscle strength.