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WATER WALKING - BACKWARD

Improve cardiovascular fitness and lower body strength through backward walking movements.

Focus Lower Body
Pool Depth Fully Anchored
Supervision Not required
Equipment None

How to Perform

  1. Stand in shoulder-high water with feet shoulder-width apart and spine neutral.
  2. Walk backward in the water at a comfortable pace.
  3. Maintain upright posture and steady breathing throughout.
  4. Use wall support or other swimmers to ensure safety.
  5. Continue walking for prescribed duration. Start with 1 lap and work toward 2 laps.

Key Execution Cues

Remember: Walk backward slowly and carefully. Maintain steady pace. Look ahead for safety. Breathe continuously.

Safety & Precautions

Important: Avoid if acute lower limb injury or severe balance issues. Modify if experiencing coordination difficulties.

Additional Safety Notes: Walk at comfortable pace. Stop if you experience pain. Use wall or staff support.

Exercise Modifications

Make it Harder (Progressions)

Increase distance. Increase walking speed.

Make it Easier (Regressions)

Decrease distance. Decrease walking speed. Use wall support.

Attribution

Source TypeBook
Original AuthorOhio State University Wexner Medical Center
ContributorAI Extraction Agent
PublicationAquatic Exercises
LicenseAll Rights Reserved
Credit RequiredYes
Date Created2026-01-18
Last Modified2026-01-18

External Source

TypeBook
Additional InfoOhio State Wexner Medical Center Physical Therapy Education