Aquatic Physiotherapy - Ai Chi
Discover Ai Chi, a gentle yet purposeful aquatic movement practice that blends flowing whole-body movement with calm, controlled breathing. Inspired by the principles of Tai Chi and delivered in the warmth of a pool environment, Ai Chi supports relaxation, mindfulness, balance, mobility and body awareness—making it a valuable addition to contemporary physiotherapy practice.
This learning opportunity is designed for physiotherapists who want to build confidence in understanding and professionally delivering Ai Chi to appropriate patient groups. With applications across balance dysfunction, motor control challenges, pain presentations and a range of musculoskeletal conditions, Ai Chi offers clinicians a versatile approach to supporting patient movement and wellbeing.
This course introduces participants to the origins of the technique, including the work of founder Jun Konno, before exploring its core foundations in movement, breathing, relaxation and mindfulness. Participants will learn the 19 movement postures, how they connect in sequence, and how to adapt the practice safely for different patient needs. The course also covers precautions, contraindications, suitable patient groups, supporting research, common measurement tools and practical considerations for applying Ai Chi across aquatic physiotherapy settings.
This learning opportunity is designed for physiotherapists who want to build confidence in understanding and professionally delivering Ai Chi to appropriate patient groups. With applications across balance dysfunction, motor control challenges, pain presentations and a range of musculoskeletal conditions, Ai Chi offers clinicians a versatile approach to supporting patient movement and wellbeing.
This course introduces participants to the origins of the technique, including the work of founder Jun Konno, before exploring its core foundations in movement, breathing, relaxation and mindfulness. Participants will learn the 19 movement postures, how they connect in sequence, and how to adapt the practice safely for different patient needs. The course also covers precautions, contraindications, suitable patient groups, supporting research, common measurement tools and practical considerations for applying Ai Chi across aquatic physiotherapy settings.
Learning outcomes
- Gain a thorough understanding of the fundamental concepts and techniques that underpin Ai Chi
- Stay informed about the latest research and evidence supporting Ai Chi practices
- Develop the confidence to integrate Ai Chi into aquatic therapy sessions effectively
- Recognize how Ai Chi can enhance and complement existing physiotherapy practices
- Acquire the skills to lead clients confidently through a complete Ai Chi session
- Master the 19 Ai Chi postures with precision and control
- Experience Ai Chi as a holistic practice, promoting both physical and mental relaxation through mindful movement
- Identify common client errors and compensations, and apply effective strategies to address them
- Understand the wide-ranging physical and mental health benefits associated with practicing Ai Chi
Prerequisites
- This course is only available to qualified and AHPRA registered physiotherapists.
Presenters
Ross Piper
Ross Piper, APAM is the senior aquatic physiotherapist at McKellar centre, Geelong since 2005. Following a successful scholarship application, he completed Ai Chi training in Valen's, Switzerland with Jun Konno and Johan Lambeck in May 2008. Ross immediately visualised the benefits for his clients and begun completing formal Ai Chi programs in early 2009, objectively measuring the effects. Ross has presented two lectures, one on Ai Chi, at the National APA Conference in October 2011 and has presented Ai Chi as part of the Level 3 Aquatic course on several occasions. Along with colleagues Julie Sheahan and Gabrielle Young he has presented Ai Chi workshops regularly since that time.
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