The Halliwick Concept, inclusion and participation through aquatic functional activities

Abstract

This paper presents the qualitative and quantitative data derived from studying the impact on the lives of 674 disabled individuals after they had followed the Halliwick method for one year at the Institute of Medicine and Rehabilitation - Hospital das Clinicas - University of Sao Paulo. The Halliwick Concept was developed in 1949 by James McMillan in England and is based on the principles of hydrostatics, hydrodynamics, and body mechanics in water. Objective: Halliwick’s 10-Point Program forms the practical application of its concept. It helps to structure the processes of teaching and learning, logically, progressively, and safely. Method: The method involves working in groups that help motivate and encourage social interaction, whilst optimizing learning. Halliwick’s Concept introduces water as an environment in which to work movement and motor control exercises in an innovative way. The physical properties of water promote the well being of the body’s physical structures and functions, independence of movement, the understanding of new concepts of motor skills, sensory processing, cognitive learning, organization of movement patterns, and control of a diverse range of activities. The physiology of immersion is responsible for activating organ systems and improving their capacity and performance. Results: This pioneering project, which received support from the International Halliwick’s Association and its branch, the Brazilian Halliwick Association, made the initiative accessible to thousands of disabled users in Brazil who benefited from its non-discriminatory approach. Traditional techniques for teaching swimming have been influenced greatly by the holistic characteristics of the Halliwick method, which also introduced significant refinements to hydrotherapy techniques. Conclusion: The method developed new ways of exercising and showed that rehabilitation programs that offer combined therapeutic and recreational activities provide consistent rehabilitation to the disabled as well as the able-bodied person. Furthermore, it allows for the individual to achieve their maximum potential and enjoy physical, psychological and social benefits.