News

A new contest for finding new talents for the aquatic fitness industry
August 30th, 2007

The Finnish Institute Of Aquatics organized the first AquaTrainer contest in August 25-26, 2007 in Tampere, Finland. The purpose of the contest was to find new talents for the aquatic fitness industry and to find new young fitness instructors who are to choose aquatic fitness industry for their future profession. The winner of the contest is the talented 28-year old Erika Jokinen. Her prize is a trip to The European Aquatic Fitness Convention in Karlsruhe, Germany. With up to 500 participants from 15 countries and three continents it is one of the biggest Aqua Fitness Events worldwide. She / he is going to be a presenter there. The AquaTrainer 2007 contest was organized in connection with The First International Aquatic Fitness Conference, The AquaTrainingDays 2007 in Finland. The registration for the AquaTrainer 2008 contest is open.

The First International Aquatic Exercise Conference AquaTrainingDays 2007 in Finland in Tampere Swimming Centre in August 25.-26.
August 22th, 2007

Gain your own aquatic exercise know-how by diving into the innovative sessions. Find irresistible mind and body sports adapted in the water, and new aquatic exercise equipment from the world. New sessions include afro, sowdance, hip-hop, disco, rock and latin music. AquaTrainingDays 2007 is organized by the Finnish Institute of Aquatics and the city of Tampere.

The AquaBike to be premiered at Tampere
June 18th, 2007

The AquaBike, a “water bicycle”, is a fun new piece of exercise equipment for the water. It has multiple different possibilities for its use. The AquaBike, apart from just water bicycling, can be used to do push-ups, ab- and thigh-workouts, balance exercise, and many other enjoyable maneuvers, either alone or in a group. On the 25.-26.8.2007, at Tampere, the first international aquatic exercise conference in Finland, AquaTrainingDays 2007 are to be held. At the conference, Swedish aquatic exercise instructor Cecilia Bokefelt will introduce participants into using the AquaBike to its full potential.

Aquajogging Finland – campaign
June 17th, 2007

Aquajogging has become the favourite watersport of Finns. In many swimming pools a large number of the enthusiasts are aquajoggers, but most aquajogging takes place in natural waters during the summertime. Go pick up the latest tips and advice on your aquajogging technique at the aquajogging intros. During summer, you can receive aquajogging instruction at our lovely beaches! In addition the summer intros are free-of-charge, though during the rest of the year, they are 25€ per participant. At aquajogging intros you may also try on and test suitable Aquabelts and aquajogging-shoes.

The evolution of dance in water
June 14th, 2007

AquaDisco is a new aerobic aquatic exercise, where you can simultaneously party and work out. During the 45 minute long sessions, you will hear lovely disco hits in chronological order, from Grease to Shakira. You can dance away to the familiar dance patterns in the pool, guided by an instructor, and get a great fitness work-out, accompanied by a broad smile on your face. AquaDisco, which is developed by the Finnish Institute Of Aquatics, began on the 21st of May 2007 at AquaTrain posts around Finland. More information about AquaTrain here

Top-notch instructor from Moscow coming to the Aqua Training Days conference in Tampere
April 10th, 2007

The international aquatic exercise conference Aqua Training days will be organized on the 25.-26.8.2007 in Tampere. Ekaterina Khapkova from Moscow has ensured her participation at the occasion as an instructor. Khapkova is a master of science in physical education and also has a background of Olympic-level synchronized swimming. She works as an executive of aquatic exercise sessions in a physical exercise corporation in Moscow, and trains aquatic exercise instructors in Russia. She has appeared in conferences in Belgium, the USA and Russia, and is particularly proud that she was an instructor in Russia's first aquatic exercise conference.

International Aquatic Fitness Conferences
April 3rd, 2007

International Aquatic Fitness Conferences within next months:

• 11. European Aquatic Fitness Convention May 11-13, 2007 in Germany, Karlsruhe. Organized by Aquateam. Read more.
• IFAC 2007 - International Aquatic Fitness Conference May 15-19, 2007 in the U.S.A, Florida Orlando. Organized by Aquatic Exercise Association, The Finnish Institute of Aquatics is attending. Read more.
• Aqua Training Days – 1. International Aquatic Fitness Conference in Finland, Tampere. Organized by The Finnish Institute of Aquatics. Order the brochure.

AQx Aquatic Training Shoe® increases resistance and protects your feet
March 5th, 2007

The new innovation in footwear increases the difficulty of the exercises in aquatic exercise. In aquatic exercise, up to 20-30% extra resistance can be gained, when using the AQx Aquatic Training Shoe`s ® gill-like extra resistors. This resistor adds more muscular activity especially in the lower torso, back- and front-thighs, hip joints and buttocks, consumes more energy, a.k.a. calories, increases the metabolism, and offers a good exercise for the respiratory and blood circulation system. With the help of the AQx Aquatic Training Shoe® you will gain control over your body, good exercise and stay healthy. This is what we refer to as "intelligent exercise".

AQx Aquatic Training Shoe® advance order offer
March 5th, 2007

AQx Aquatic Training Shoe® suit both athletes as well as regular people. You can use them in aquajogging and in other aquatic exercise, in both swimming pools and in natural environments. In natural waters, the shoes protect you from the uncomfortable bottom beneath your feet and from cutting yourself on rocks. In swimming pools the AQx Aquatic Training Shoe® protect your from bacteria and athlete's foot. In some Finnish swimming pools, the shoes may feel slippery in shallow water, depending on the type of tiling used. If ordered by 15th of March we are offering a huge discount on advance orders of AQx Aquatic Training Shoe® - 29 euros. The normal price is 98 euros, and the advance order price 69 euros + delivery costs. The shoes will be delivered by 1.6.2007.

Early information on the Aqua Training Days 25.-26.8.2007
March 2nd, 2007

The international Aquatic Exercise Conference, the Aqua Training Days, will be held on the 25.-26.8.2007, in Kaleva Swimming Center in Tampere. The programme will include, in addition to AquaPilates and AquaFunk, internationally acclaimed model lessons for older people, exercises for those with knee- and/or hip-problems, and also the AquaTrainer 2007 contest! Keep an eye on our website; in the near future we shall publish the programme of the event and the special "Early Bird" price – a offer for those who sign up by the end of May.

Aquatic exercise is a safe form of exercise, reveals a research in Jyväskylä
February 27th, 2007

In Tiina Kosonen's aquatic exercise research, there is a lot of interesting information about the intensity of the sport. The target group of the pro gradu study, made in the University of Jyväskylä, were both healthy women and women with respiratory and/or blood circulation problems. It was imminent in the study that, even with low intensity levels, energy is well-spent in aquatic exercise, as when exercising in water you must overcome the resistance of the water constantly. Also the intensity during basic movements, for the women with respiratory and/or blood circulation problems, was on a very safe level.

Basic courses in aquatic exercise for professionals in the spring of 2007
February 27th, 2007

The VEPA-course, a basic course in aquatic exercise for professionals, is a course that prepares you for the following Aquatic Exercise Association (AEA) international aquatic exercise certificates:

1. Aquatic Fitness Professional REVIEW
2. Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification EXAMINATION

Aquatic exercise is a safe form of exercise, reveals a research in Jyväskylä
February 13th, 2007

In Tiina Kosonen's aquatic exercise research, there is a lot of interesting information about the intensity of the sport. The target group of the pro gradu study, made in the University of Jyväskylä, were both healthy women and women with respiratory and/or blood circulation problems. It was imminent in the study that, even with low intensity levels, energy is well-spent in aquatic exercise, as when exercising in water you must overcome the resistance of the water constantly. Also the intensity during basic movements, for the women with respiratory and/or blood circulation problems, was on a very safe level.

Aquatic exercise lessens the pains of pregnant women
February 5th, 2007

Aquatic exercise of pregnant women has been researched last year both in Finland and in Brazil. During pregnancy, it is important to do physical exercise to maintain a standard of general fitness. A good level of fitness shortens the duration of labour and helps you recover from the stress of the delivery. The best forms of exercise for pregnant women are walking, aquatic exercise and relaxing gymnastics. We're publishing two research summaries and one research paper on the subject. According to Finkelstain's research, aquatic movement suits pregnant individuals, because it only applies very little pressure on the joints and lessens the pressure from the gained weight. According to a research paper made in Seinäjoki polytechnic, aquatic exercise during pregnancy led to lessened pains, a higher level of general fitness and the importance of social contacts.

Pilates, Disco and Funk this year's aquatic exercise novelties
February 2nd, 2007

AquaTrain is an aerobic musical aquatic exercise sport. In it is included also the mind sport, where relaxation is the objective; not a raised pulse. Also, new sports are added to AquaTrain constantly. Next year's AquaTrain novelties are AquaDisco, AquaFunk and also AquaPilates, which will already be started in January.

Aquatic Capoeira is beginning
January 28th, 2007

The newest form of aquatic exercise is AquaCapoiera – the fighting dance spiced with hot rhythms. Capoeira is a Brazilian martial arts sport, which is masqueraded as a dance. The dance influences of Capoeira can be found in African dancing. Capoeira is very well suited for the water. Its distinct intriguing Capoeira music is also perfect for the water. AquaCapoeira is also good for beginners of the sport. The water balances you better than dry land when attempting the more challenging moves. The resistance of the water, on the other hand though, makes the sport specifically effective in the extensive limb movements.Read more about AquaCapoeira.

Growing interest in aquatic exercise is inspiring entrepreneurs into cooperation
January 15th, 2007

Aquatic exercise is popular and it has great potential for potential enthusiasts – a total of 11% of adults. A quarter of all Finnish adults either already enjoy, or would like to start, regular aquatic exercise, according to the National exercise research (Kunto ry, 2006). On the market entrepreneurs have had good experiences concerning the activation of new customer groups into the sport. Due to the expertise, in Central Finland, in exercise and well-being technology, a group of corporations are beginning to work together with aquatic exercise enthusiasts, to gain from the growing interest in the sport. The corporation network has taken the name of Aquapolis. The collaboration is coordinated by Jykes Oy. The Finnish Institute of Aquatics made a preliminary settlement with Jykes concerning the networking needs and wishes. – According to the settlement, the corporations believe that it would be better if all the companies would work together than each on their own level concerning the mass-production and possible marketing of customer solutions, associated with aquatic exercise, Eevaliisa Anttila of the Finnish Institute of Aquatics says, and continues: - There are already 9 participating corporations and the first idea brainstorm session will be organized on the 22.-23.1.2007.

AquaPilates coming to swimming pools in 2007
November 1st, 2006

Body control techniques and body & mind excercise are now-a-days very popular forms of exercise, of which Pilates probably the most popular. In Finland, Pilates is most often done on the floor on exercise mattresses. MP-Pilates instructor Riku Virtanen has finished his diploma on the application of Pilates into water. – The Pilates method's most important principals are concentration, use of the body, control, breathing, accuracy and flowing movements. All these principals adapt to water very well, and some are even enhanced, Virtanen comments.

AquaLineDance – splash some water on your Stetsons and get your pulse going!
October 29th, 2006

Linedancing can be done in water too. AquaLineDance is the newest in the line of AquaTrain aquatic exercise sessions. The sport enhances specifically the buttock muscles and the general physique of the feet. In AquaLineDance you let loose in the water with different dance sequences, and the music includes, in addition to the line dance rhythms, country, riverdance and can-can. The sessions begin with easy sequences and are easy for all, as it's devised for the average John and Jane Doe type exercisers. Participation to the sessions does not require previous experience in dancing, and it suits all people with normal fitness, who enjoy being in the water. AquaLineDance is very inspiring and motivating.

Innovations of Aquatics Convention in Finland
October 14th, 2006

Innovations of Aquatics training sequence is a series of days, which begins this autumn, devoted to brainstorming practical aquatic exercises. This new way to offer training for aquatic exercise professionals, from the Finnish Institute of Aquatics, is made for the needs of exercise trainers. New ideas, concerning the use of music and different tools, new aquatic exercise forms and training specifically for the swimming pool, are needed in aquatic exercise. This autumn’s aquatic exercise innovations training sequence is to be organized in Joensuu, Nokia, Ikaalinen, and the biggest event will be in Siuntio.

AEA's certification to begin in Finland
September 28th, 2006

The respected Aquatic Exercise Association, or in short the AEA, is to begin certifications and instructor activity in Finland. Lahti Polytechnic's replenishment training unit is organizing, in cooperation with the Finnish Institute of Aquatics, the first Aquatic Exercise training basics course for professionals on the 7th-8th of March 2007. The first AEA Aquatic Fitness Instructor Certification & Examination is on the 8th of May in 2007 in Lahti. Come join the first course in Finland ever! More information about certifications here: http://www.aeawave.com/PublicPages/CertEd/Certification/Intro/tabid/113/Default.aspx

Aquatic Pilates, Tai Chi and Yoga
September 21st, 2006

Calm, relaxing forms of exercise that enhance the harmony of the body and mind are suited for water excellently also. The Finnish Institute Of Aquatics has made founding development work to adapt the characteristics of water for popular group exercise forms, such as Pilates, Tai Chi and Yoga. – Control of the body and movement, easy breathing and feeling energetic are common for the new AquaHarmony session, that combines these forms of exercise, says Eevaliisa Anttila, the aquatic exercise trainer in charge of the development. Development continues to this day and new theme-sessions are going to be introduced later this year, according to Anttila. The new AquaHarmony can be tried out at Ikaalisten Kylpylä, and later also at other AquaTrain places.

Aquatic exercise model sessions for the region of Jyväskylä
September 20th, 2006

The three-year plan for healthcare and special exercise for the region of Jyväksylä's city network has begun. The plan's purpose is to pilot and establish a common healthcare and special exercise pattern for the municipalities involved. The pattern consists of public, private and third sector working together for preventive and rehabilitating exercise services, over municipality and governing boundaries. At the end of the plan, model sessions for aquatic and group exercise for children, teens, adults and pensioners, will be completed. The director of the control board for the plan is Central Finland’s healthcare municipality board director, Pekka Toivonen, and in the group are represented all the municipalities, institutions, organisations and companies involved, including The Finnish Institute Of Aquatics. More information about this project from project leader Elina Hasanen. elina.hasanen@jkl.fi

AquaTrain progresses to the next development step
September 12th, 2006

AquaTrain is trendy musical exercise that is organized in places specialized in AquaTrain around Finland. The autumn’s first novelties include a new theme, AquaLineDance and the first updates to AquaBailamos and AquaBoxing. AquaTrain is a youthful aquatic exercise that is very efficient. The updated sessions now also include exercise to Finland’s first-time Eurovision song contest winning song.

Europe’s finest Aquatic Exercise – trainer contest to be held in Finland
September 11th, 2006

Europe’s Aqua-Rookie is a prestigious title given to the best newcomer in European aquatic exercise training annually. Participants from different countries display their skills to judges and an audience. The contest consists of two 20 minute performances, one in shallow water and one in deep water. The judges will pick Europe’s Aqua-Rookie from the participants. This is a possibility for all the new talents – to display themselves to the world and become an international aquatic exercise trainer. The winner automatically participates in the international aquatic exercise conference. The one chosen as Aqua-Rookie of their country can participate in this international contest. For example, Finland’s Aqua-Rookie can take part in the Europe’s Aqua-Rookie contest. You can get more information about the Finnish contest in the up-coming weeks here: http://www.aquarookie.eu/index.html.

Aquatic exercise seems to prevent the weakening of bone density
June 22nd, 2006

According to research, aquatics seem to have an effect on the increase of bone density. Harush's study at Haifa University, together with Yurtkuran's, Tsukahara's and Goldstain's studies, indicate that aquatics does increase bone density. Harush's research's most important conclusion is that regular, three times a week aquatic exercise seems to prevent the weakening of bone density for menopausal women, who generally suffer from the natural deterioration of the bones by about 1%–2% annually.

Captivating underwater photographs in web
June 9th, 2006

Click http://www.cc.jyu.fi/~ikeskine/wetgal.htm and submerge to dream about water. Pictures of this underwater photo gallerie is taken by Ilkka Keskinen. He is a lecturer in Jyväskylä University in Jyväskylä, Finland. His main teaching field is aquatics. He is a specialist in pool photography shooting people under water and getting surrealist and beautiful photos which are very original on the Internet. I hope that you will enjoy Ilkka`s UW-Gallerie. Picture on the permission of Ilkka Keskinen.

On the lookout for regional instructors
June 5th, 2006

The instructors at the Finnish Institute of Aquatics are pioneers in their field of expertise, and are constantly developing their skills. Each one of them has experience in performing and training aquatic exercise. They have all participated in the Finnish Institute of Aquatics’ own instructor training course, and have also completed lifeguard training nationally. They, also, annually take part in sequel trainings, organized by the Finnish Institute of Aquatics. For the first time, we’re now looking for international instructors to join our team, because the demand for our training has expanded to our neighbouring countries. If you think you’d enjoy working on our team and you live in...

• Scandinavia
• Russia
• The Baltic
• Poland or
• Germany…

Send your free form application to Eevaliisa Anttila.

Strawberry aquajogging at Suonenjoki
June 3rd, 2006

At Suonenjoki, in the middle of Finland, an idyllic affair is taking place in the summer - the Strawberry Carnival. On Saturday the 15th of July, during the Carnival weekend, the aquajogging event will be organized for the second time already. Aquajogging has become popular nationally as a good form of exercise, in the past three years. The event includes an aquajogging race, in which you don’t have to rush, if you wish not to. A winnable “best headwear” competition will also be arranged during the strawberry-flavoured aquajogging event. Novelty games include a relay tournament, called the noodlerace. Separate games have been organized for the younger participants. Aquajogging technique instructions will be taught before the friendly contest. Participation is free for all. All enquiries to +358 40 749 33 11.

Babyswimming - an everlasting trend in Aquatics
May 31st, 2006

In babyswimming the infant is center of the activity. Babyswimming though is something the whole family can enjoy. New babyswimming instructorcourses have started in Finland since the 27th of May. Long term babyswimming enthusiast and mentor, Gisela Tauriainen, is offering the idea to maximaze the benefits of babyswimming by utilizing the inborn skills of babies; concentration, persistance and determinedness. The weekend course, called “The Visions of Babyswimming”, is organized by the Finnish Institute of Aquatics. For further information e-mail info@vesiliikunta.com.

High Honor Achieved - Anttila contracted as an AEA International Training Specialist
May 10th, 2006

The Aquatic Exercise Association, (AEA) is the leading Aquatic Fitness Association in the world. On the 26th of April Eevaliisa Anttila, president of Finnish Institute of Aquatics was promoted to an AEA International Training Specialist in Northern Europe. At the 18th Annual International Aquatic Fitness Conference IAFC 2006, 5 new International Training Specialists were promoted in Finland, Brazil, Mexico and for Spanish USA population. After the promotion Anttila is able to start Aquatic Fitness Professional Certifications and Reviews of AEA. They are going to be organized by the Finnish Institute of Aquatics.

AEA has certified over 45.000 worldwide
May 10th, 2006

Aquatic fitness industry is growing globally. Angie Proctor, the Executive Director of AEA is pleased with AEA's progress in internationalization strategies. - Aquatic fitness is getting more and more popular in many countries. It is goal of AEA that this industry grows safely and effectively as a means to increase and maintain healthy lifestyles for all people. In addition AEA is dedicated to the development of aquatic fitness internationally. After the latest promotions there is 26 AEA International Training Specialists and programs and educational training in over 50 countries. AEA has certified over 45.000 worldwide. One sign of the growth of the industry is Annual International Aquatic Fitness Conference: There were 750 participants in IFAC 2006 which is 100 persons more than last year and the conference had attendees from over 32 countries.

Company Overview

Founded in 2003, the Finnish Institute of Aquatics is a centre for promoting health and rehabilitation using various water activities. The company’s main business is to license its Aquatic exercise programs. Other products are educational materials, aquatic equipment and technological solutions.

The Finnish Institute of Aquatics’s customers are organizations and companies who provide water related activities e.g. spas, health clubs, swimming clubs, rehabilitation centers and hospitals.

The Institute develops its programs together with organizations who want to provide new and unique aerobic and fitness exercise programs to their customers. These programs are for people who enjoy exercise, want to relieve stress, enjoy water activities and appreciate music and dance. The Finnish Institute of Aquatics has developed programs like: Aquatic Exercise Programs, Relaxing in Water, Nature Water Swimming, and Aquatics for all.

Contact Person

Eevaliisa Anttila, CEO
eevaliisa@vesiliikunta.com
Tel: 358-14-449-7921
Mobile: 358-40-749-3311

Company Size & Locations

• Headquartered in Jyväskylä, Finland
• Employs 10 people

Networking organizations in Jyväskylä Region

Investors/Ownership

Finnish Institute of Aquatics is a privately owned company and has no external investors.

Product Offerings

1. Licences
   • Aqua Train Program. Renewed program in aquatic services 4 times per year. Includes basic training and theme training plus material which includes, class planning, music and training DVDs
2. Educational Material
   • Materials for various aquatic exercise programs.
3. Aquatic equipment and technological solutions

Customers

• Spas
• Health Care Facilities
• Corporate Entertainment groups
• Swim Centers
• Educational Institutes
• Sporting goods and department stores

References

Finnish health and sports organizations:

• The Finnish Society for Research in Sport and Physical Education
• The Central Association for Recreational Sports and Outdoor Activities
• The Association of Physical and Health Educators
• The Finnish Association for Mental Health
• The Finnish Rheumatism Association
• The Finnish Back Association
• Wellness Center of Viveca
• Wellness Dream Lab
• University of Jyväskylä, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences
• Fit for Life Program
• The Institute of Finnish Health Fitness, Ltd.
• Karstula Evangelical Folk High School
• The College Of Central Finland
• Service Foundation for People with Intellectual Disability
• Finnish Sports Federation, Northern Savo
• Finnish Sports Federation, Central Finland
• Finnish Sports Federation, Southern Savo
• The Finnish Association of Sports for the Disabled
• Finnish Sports Federation for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities
• The Stroke and Dysphasia Federation
• City of Jyväskylä
• Swimming and Recreation Center AaltoAlvari

Clients > AquaTrain clubs:

• Fitness Club Danafitness
• Ikaalinen Spa
• Kokkoska
• Käringin kutsu
• Swimming pool of Kirkkonummi
• Spa Hotel Päiväkumpu
• Spa Hotel Rauhanlahti
• Naantali Spa Hotel
• Swimming Association of Riihimäki
• Saarijärvi
• Spa Hotel Summassaari
• Ruissalo Spa Hotel
• Kuntohovi Spa Hotel
• Kivitippu

Clients > Education and developing projects:

• Spa Hotel Peurunka
• City of Jyväskylä
  • (Human Technology City article)
• Swimming and Recreation Center AaltoAlvari
• City of Helsinki Sports Department
• Mama's Pocket — Herran Kukkaro
• Iisalmi
• Imatra
• Kaarina
• Karstula Evangelical Folk High School
• The College Of Central Finland
• Merikoski Rehabilitation and Research Centre
• The Town of Pyhajärvi
• Service Foundation for People with Intellectual Disability
• Finnish Sports Federation, Northern Savo
• Finnish Sports Federation, Central Finland
• Finnish Sports Federation, Southern Savo
• The Finnish Association of Sports for the Disabled
• Finnish Sports Federation for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities
• Sport School Anix
• The Stroke and Dysphasia Federation
• Ristijarvi
• Petrea

Clients > Association projects

• The Finnish Society for Research in Sport and Physical Education
• The Central Association for Recreational Sports and Outdoor Activities
• The Association of Physical and Health Educators
• The Finnish Association for Mental Health
• The Finnish Rheumatism Association
• The Finnish Association for Heartchildren
• The Finnish Back Association
• ETRA-liitto

Education co-operators

• FAF, Fitness Academy of Finland
• The Institute of Finnish Health Fitness, Ltd.
• Lahti Polytechnic, Faculty of Physical Activity
• Mikkeli Polythechnic, Health and Sports
• PhysioBic Institute
• Uudenmaan fysioterapeutit

Other Co-operators

• Wellness Center of Viveca
• Interface of Human Thecnology
• University of Jyväskylä, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences
• Jyväskylä Science Park
• Jykes Ltd., Jyväskylä Regional Development Company Jykes, Ltd.
  • (Jyväskylä News article)
• Edita Publishing, Ltd.
• Fit For Life Programme
• Firstbeat Technologies, Ltd.

Press/Articles

Several articles in Finnish media: Helsingin Sanomat, Sport, Weight Watchers, Anna, Madame, Kodin Kuvalehti, Lääkärilehti, Trendi, Me Naiset and also news in Finnish public and local radio and TV stations.