Written by Wendy Enck
Article
Aquatic Therapy, Exercise, Health & Wellness, weight
Why Aquatic Therapy at HARTZ Physical Therapy May Be the Gentle Start You’ve Been Looking For
If you’re carrying extra weight and dealing with joint pain, limited mobility, or chronic discomfort, you already know how challenging movement can feel. Traditional exercise programs often weren’t designed with your body or your experience in mind—and that’s not your fault.
At HARTZ Physical Therapy, we understand that everyone’s journey to wellness looks different. For many people navigating both orthopedic challenges and weight concerns, aquatic therapy offers something truly different: a chance to move with less pain, more support, and zero judgment.
Why Water Changes Everything: Your Body Feels Lighter
In chest-deep water, buoyancy reduces up to 80% of your body weight. That means less pressure on your knees, hips, and back—and more freedom to move in ways that may have become difficult or painful on land.
Gentle Resistance That Works With You
Water naturally provides resistance in every direction, helping you build strength, improve muscle tone, and burn calories—all without the high impact or strain of traditional exercise.
Warmth That Soothes
Our pools are maintained at a soothing 90°F. Warm water relaxes tight muscles, eases joint stiffness, and improves circulation, so you can move with greater comfort and confidence.
A Safe, Private Space to Rebuild Confidence
I know how vulnerable it can feel to start moving again. Our one-on-one sessions offer:
- A judgment-free environment
- Private changing rooms & showers for your comfort
- Reduced risk of falling or injury
- Improved balance and stability
- The chance to rediscover what your body CAN do
Mental and Emotional Relief, Too
Beyond the physical benefits, many clients find that time in the water reduces stress, improves sleep, and lifts mood—all of which support sustainable, long-term wellness.
What Your Sessions Might Include
Your aquatic therapy will be tailored to you—your comfort level, your goals, and your pace. Activities may include:
- Gentle water walking or jogging
- Use of an aqua bike
- Resistance-based strengthening
- Ai Chi (flowing, meditative movement)
- Deep-water cardio (if and when you’re ready)
- Balance and core training
- Stretching and mobility work
Everything is adaptable. You’re never expected to do more than feels right for your body.
Why This Works When Other Things Haven’t
Aquatic therapy removes many of the barriers that make traditional exercise feel impossible. The water holds you. It cushions you. It lets you move without pain getting in the way. And when movement feels better, it becomes easier to stay consistent—which is what truly leads to progress.
One of my favorite things to hear after a first session is, “That was actually fun.” Aquatic therapy doesn’t have to feel serious or intimidating to be effective. I work hard to make every session feel welcoming, encouraging, and a little lighthearted. We laugh, we move, and we focus on what your body can do—sometimes more than you expected. When you feel successful in the water, confidence comes naturally. My goal is for you to leave the pool feeling proud, supported, and excited to come back, because when therapy feels good to show up for, real progress follows…… but don’t just take my word for it—listen to my patient Judy.
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you’ve been waiting for a sign that it’s okay to start gently—this is it. Aquatic therapy at HARTZ Physical Therapy is about meeting you where you are, supporting your body, and helping you move with less pain and more confidence.
Contact me at @ wenck@hartzpt.com.
Aquatic therapy is available at the following HARTZ Physical Therapy locations:
Lititz: 100 Highlands Drive | 717.625-2228
Lancaster East: 804 New Holland Ave. | 717.396.7766
Lancaster West: 90 Good Drive | 717.735.8880
Mount Joy: 755 E. Main Street | 717.492.8708
I can help you determine the best location and program for your needs and make sure your first experience in the water feels comfortable, safe, and encouraging—right from the start.