THE ARTHRITIS BOOK OF WATER EXERCISE

A safe, mild exercise program for arthritis sufferers and others with movement restrictions (as now conducted by many Y's). Swimming instructor letter and occupational therapist Kadlec advocate ""gentle, controlled stretching and limbering movements emphasizing flexibility and joint mobility""; such a program can increase the range of motion of arthritis-affected joints. Doing the exercises in water has a two-fold benefit: water resistance adds a strengthening component to each exercise; and the water's buoyancy minimizes the pull on sore or disabled joints. The authors first go over the basics--with particular attention to water temperature, clothing, and pre-exercise medical clearance--and then set out three graduated programs: beginner, intermediate, and advanced (for swimmers only). These are clearly explained and illustrated. Some of the exercises are done with a partner; some are adaptable to the bathtub. Rachel Carr's Arthritis: Relief Beyond Drugs (1981) offers an equally sound exercise program--but this guide's addition of a watery environment is a real plus.