Aquatic fitness and exercise programs: Advances in sports performance, rehabilitation, and holistic well-being

Aquatic exercise has emerged as a multidisciplinary field bridging sports science, rehabilitation, and preventive health. The unique physical and thermal properties of water create an environment that enhances movement efficiency, reduces joint load, and promotes both physiological and psychological adaptation. Over recent decades, aquatic fitness programs have become established tools for improving physical performance and supporting injury recovery. However, research gaps remain in the comparative understanding of aquatic versus land-based exercise, the long-term impact on well-being markers, and the physiological mechanisms that underpin these benefits. Additionally, while aquatic therapy has strong historical roots through the use of mineral and thermal waters, systematic comparisons between modern aquatic fitness modalities and traditional hydrothermal practices remain scarce.Recent studies have highlighted that water-based exercise can improve cardiovascular fitness, functional mobility, body composition, and quality of life across diverse populations, from elite athletes to older adults and individuals undergoing rehabilitation. The interplay of buoyancy, hydrostatic pressure, and water resistance appears to enhance strength and flexibility while reducing perceived exertion, fostering adherence and psychological engagement. Yet, questions linger about optimal program design, individual responsiveness, and the integration of aquatic methods into high-performance training and rehabilitation protocols. A more unified body of evidence is needed to guide practitioners and policymakers who wish to maximize the benefits of aquatic exercise in clinical, recreational, and athletic contexts.This Research Topic aims to consolidate and expand research on aquatic exercise and fitness programs, investigating their effects on physical performance, rehabilitation outcomes, and individual well-being. It seeks to clarify how different modalities — from structured aquatic training to hydrotherapy and spa-based practices — influence both objective and subjective health indicators. Authors are encouraged to contribute studies that compare aquatic and land-based modalities, explore physiological mechanisms, or assess long-term behavioral outcomes. Interdisciplinary approaches that integrate physiology, biomechanics, psychology, and clinical science are particularly welcome.To gather further insights into the effects of aquatic fitness programs across health and sports settings, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:Effects of aquatic exercise on sports performance and physical conditioningPhysiological and biomechanical adaptations to water-based trainingAquatic rehabilitation protocols for musculoskeletal, neurological, and post-surgical recoveryComparisons between aquatic and land-based exercise regimensPsychosocial and well-being outcomes of aquatic fitness participationApplications of thermal and mineral-rich water environments for recovery and preventionInnovations in aquatic program design, technology, and assessment toolsWe invite original research, systematic reviews, case studies, and interdisciplinary perspectives to deepen the understanding of how aquatic fitness interventions support physical health, mental well-being, and functional performance. Topic editors: Maria José Gonçalves Alves, Jorge E Morais, Tiago M. Barbosa Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/81889/aquatic-fitness-and-exercise-programs-advances-in-sports-performance-rehabilitation-and-holistic-well-being