The City of Chattanooga Parks and Recreation along with the Arthritis Foundation will offer Aquatic Programs starting Sept. 11, at Brainerd Community Center.  This program incorporates the 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 increase joint flexibility and range of motion, while restoring or maintaining muscle strength.  Led by Arthritis Foundation certified instructors, classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10:15am for the low cost of $2 per class.  

Co-developed with the YMCA to reduce pain, this low-impact, joint-safe exercise program has been documented to help relieve stiffness and decrease arthritis pain while increasing flexibility and range of motion. 

Suitable for every fitness level, the program is taught by Arthritis Foundation certified instructors, each of whom have completed in-depth training on arthritis and the Arthritis Foundation Aquatics Program. The classes meet for eight weeks, two times per week and is designed to be a fun, safe way for people with arthritis to exercise and stay fit.

“In addition to reducing pain and stiffness, the Arthritis Foundation Programs for Better Living help people with arthritis keep joints flexible, maintain muscle strength and build overall stamina,” said Katie Maruskin of the Tennessee Office of the Arthritis Foundation. 

Results are backed by research studies.  In one study, individuals who attended the class for four months reduced their pain by 24 percent and increased confidence in their ability to continue activities by 22 percent.

The Arthritis Foundation urges anyone who has the pain and symptoms of arthritis to seek an early and specific diagnosis.  With more than 100 forms of arthritis and related diseases, a specific diagnosis is critical because each form requires a different treatment plan. 

Pre-registration for the Aquatic Program is not necessary, but enrollment is limited.  All participants will complete a short, informational ready for exercise form prior to starting their first class.   For more information contact Peggy Grall at 423-697-1385. Before starting any exercise program, always check with your physician.

The Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program is one of several arthritis health education and exercise programs in the Programs for Better Living offered by the Arthritis Foundation to help people take control of arthritis.  For a listing of programs in your community contact the Arthritis Foundation at (800) 454-4662 or visit the Arthritis Foundation web site at www.arthritis.org and type in your zip code to view a listing of programs in your area.

The Arthritis Foundation is the only nationwide, nonprofit health organization helping people take greater control of arthritis by leading efforts to prevent, control and cure arthritis and related diseases – the nation’s leading cause of disability.

The mission of the City of Chattanooga Parks and Recreation Department is to provide an excellent variety of leisure opportunities to enhance the individual's quality of life through exceptional programs in attractive, safe, and well-maintained parks and facilities.