Aqua teacher BJ shares skills at Chandler
BJ Parton (left) surrounded by some of her devoted Aqua ladies – some participants travel from Tin Can Bay four days a week to attend!
Our very own Aqua teacher, BJ Parton, recently showed other Aqua teachers “how to do it” in Brisbane.
BJ explained in more detail, “I attended the 2016 Queensland Aquatic Conference and AQUASUMMIT Soak it up Series in April, as a presenter and speaker for Aqua Fitness.
“The conference was held at the Chandler Sleeman Sport Complex in Brisbane, where around 100 or more coaches, swimming instructors and Aqua Wets instructors developed their skills.
“There were sessions running all day for different swimming needs such as turns and dives, master drills, Let’s do it for the kids and equipment use and much more.”
Alongside the CEO of Austswim, Jennifer Schembri-Portelli, BJ presented a session on Deep and Meaningful Movement in water.
BJ continued, “This involved demonstrating deep water drills to incorporate into everyday swimming, from travelling with a sculling action to simply using a different kick or body position. Water is a wonderful healing tool and we are surrounded by it.”
There was an amazing session with Dr Alan Pearce from the University of Melbourne, where he transformed ‘nerdy’ science research into easy-to-apply teaching methods.
“One of his areas of research is neuroplastic changes in the brain associated with exercise, motor rehabilitation and cognitive training, and he surely gave me the wow factor!” BJ said. “He talked about moulding the brain and teaching it new tricks; stimulating it and challenging ourselves to learn more.
“I really enjoyed my experience with the Austswim team and hope to keep it up and bring more to Rainbow. Whether it is exercise, a little rehabilitation, learning to swim, competitive swimming or just social swimming, come and join me for a whole lot of fun.”
The activities and classes at the Aquatic Centre run all year round, as the pool will be heated in the middle of May. The first session of Aqua will be pool entry only!
BJ added, “I would like to say a big thank you to all who have supported me in my training and classes. Please come and support the local Centre to help keep it running all year!”
Aqua devotee, Betty Freeman said, “We are all very proud of her achievements.”
