Drag resistance training has played a huge part in changing the perception surrounding aquatics fitness and has been key in helping facilities from around the globe unlock the full potential of their pool. What once was a space dominated by the elderly or injured is now a heavily relied on form of training for individuals of all ages and levels.
“Drag resistance training literally changed my life,” said Vitor Belfort, a Brazilian Mixed Martial Arts legend. “If you want to build muscle, if you want to do cardio, if you want strength and power, drag resistance training is for you.”
In addition to attracting new demographics, drag resistance equipment is:
- Versatile
- Cost effective
- Easy to maintain
A Closer Look at Drag Resistance Training
One of the biggest benefits of drag resistance training is that it puts the user in control. In addition, it creates a training effect that is unable to be achieved with foam equipment. It allows users to work a muscle group smoothly and equally in any direction. Plus, it offers a level of resistance tailored to each individual. The harder they push, the harder the workout will be. This enables facilities to cater to all members using one system. The same set of gear can be used by a high school athlete or an 85-year-old.
Training options are endless as the equipment uses include:
- General fitness
- Sports performance
- Deep water running
- Swim training
- Strength and conditioning
- Rehabilitation and recovery
- And many more
The versatility allows facilities to schedule and run a wider variety of classes to increase their pool’s ROI and get more people in the water at once. It has even proven an effective way of retaining members who may be recovering from an injury and unable to train on land. Rather than canceling their membership, they can turn to the water and maintain their fitness level in a safe environment during recovery.
What They Are Saying
Julie Stevens, the CEO and owner of State Swim in Adelaide Australia, shared her ROI sat at 478.66% just 12 months after introducing 15 sets of drag resistance equipment to her facilities.
“The benefits go well beyond the financial, of course,’’ she said. “We have seen a new clientele visit our swim schools, boosting our Learn to Swim program and many of the other programs we offer. We are playing a part in encouraging a healthier community and offering an exercise option for those who don’t enjoy going to the gym, going for a run or riding a bike. Will it last the test of time? It most certainly has. The equipment is as popular as ever. We haven’t had to replace one piece of the equipment in five years.”
Drag resistance equipment is made from high-impact ABS or polycarbonate plastic which means it has a longer lifespan. This not only makes the equipment durable but easy to clean.
Jane Hosking is the director of marketing at Hydrorevolution. She can be reached at jane@hydrorevolution.com or visit hydrorevolution.com.
