In deep water classes a flotation belt is commonly used*, but there are many other ways to increase the difficulty level of the class. Additional equipment options appropriate to deep water programs include ankle cuffs, gloves, buoyant hand bars and noodles.  When choosing to teach a deep water class with noodles as the primary training tool, we have to consider some very important aspects. First and foremost, we should analyze the technical and pedagogical conditions of our students. This kind of class requires swimming abilities, strong body awareness and a good physical conditioning.

Why choose the noodles?  There are many reasons. The noodle is an equipment option that we can incorporate in many different situations; it is versatile and easy to use.  Noodle offer resistance for both the upper and lower body muscles and allows one to alter exercise intensity. Besides, it is an inexpensive tool that most aquatic centers already have available.

What are the main benefits of training with the noodle?

• Increase body awareness
• Intensify core training
• Increase total body musculature training
• Increase cardiovascular resistance
• Increase motor coordination 

If your students are in very good physical condition, you can use two noodles in this class; this is an excellent way to increase the intensity even further!  There are many different formats of deep classes with one or two noodles. Listed below are various class options:

• Choreo Deep Noodles
• Double Noodle
• Hidro Core
• Deep Functional Training
• Power Deep Balance
• Interval Deep Training
• Power Abs

All of these are deep formats incorporating noodles, but each one has a specific goal. We need to remember that the most important concept is not the name of the class, but the method that was chosen and the best selection of exercises appropriate to the class goals and abilities. Organize class schedule in order to plan the intensity, the methods and the workloads to match the target population.  In other words, it is imperative to analyze the best method to achieve the physiological objectives for a specific class.

Movement choices for deep water noodle classes are almost unlimited, but here are few examples to get you started in the deep with a training format geared toward participants with strong swim skills:

• Cycling legs while moving the noodle in various arm patterns.
• Holding noodle at the back with open arms, kick both legs simultaneously from side to side.
• Seated position with noodle at the back with open arms and hands holding each end of the noodle. Alternately kick legs forward while performing shoulder adduction & abduction (take the arms behind the body).
• Vertical position Cross Country Ski. Noodle at the waist with rams pushing the noodle down and up through the water.
• Side lying position.  Begin on left side with noodle in left hand.  Travel to the left by performing flutter kick with the legs; at the same time push the noodle down toward the pool bottom and bend the elbow to bring the noodle toward the armpit. Repeat the other side.

Now it is up to you….make a good selection of songs to motivate your students and explore all the ideas you have. Good job!