Canadian Aquatic Rehab Instructors
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CARI_APT
COURSES
CARI offers courses to Rehab professionals in basic and advanced aquatic physical therapy to address all clients therapeutic goals. CARI is able to tailor the aquatic instruction to Rehabilitation facilities, staff and patient population needs. The courses include theory and practice of aquatic therapy techniques, the latest research, use of outcome measures and the development of effective, evidence-based, sustainable programming.
Foundational Aquatic Therapy Online Theory Course
Part 1, Click here
CARI, is excited to announce the addition of this Free Online Course. It is 50 minutes and covers the basics of hydrodynamics, applied to rehabilitation. It is offered through Embodia, Canada's largest online continuing education platform for physiotherapists and rehabilitation practitioners. Part 1 is a prerequisite to Part 2 of Foundational Aquatic Therapy - which explores the application of evidence-based practice and provides hours of in-pool practice.
Embodia offers a few free courses for all healthcare professionals including the Foundational Aquatic Therapy course. Embodia is a subscription service dedicated to the scholarly practice of PT; sharing the wealth of our Canadian experts and addressing the multi-faceted approach to effective physiotherapy. I encourage you to sign up and consider subscribing to get the most out of your Embodia experience. Contact support@embodiaapp.com for more information.
UPCOMING & CURRENT
COURSE OFFERINGS
Aquatic Therapy Interest Group
Date: Sunday, May 31, 2020, 2:30pm to 4:25pm
Location: Clarkson Community Centre, Warm Water Pool
2475 Truscott Drive, Mississauga, ON L5J 2B5
Pool Entrance Fee is $11.50
Purpose: To share, problem-solve and practice!
RSVP with Alison at
Aquatic Therapy - "Move with Ease"
Date: Friday April 3,2020, 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Location: Spray Lakes Family Aquatic Centre,
800 Griffin Rd E,
Cochrane, AB T4C 2B8
Limited to: 30 participants
Cost: $10 entrance fee
RSVP at
Instructors: Alison Bonnyman, PT
; Facebook at Canadian Aquatic Rehab
Course Description:
Come and find out why a dip in the beautiful Spray Lakes warm water pool (32C) is so good for you! Water
immersion is a powerful therapy. We meet on the pool deck at 6:30pm and spend the next 2 hours exploring all the
benefits of moving with ease, off-loading joints and gently challenging balance and core strength. This session goes
to 8:30pm and is open to the Cochrane community… you don’t need to be a healthcare provider to appreciate healing
waters!
CARI courses provide an up-to-date review of the research, techniques and protocols in aquatic therapy. Assessment,
treatment, progression and goal attainment in the water environment are addressed. Come away with creative,
specific aquatic tools to enhance your practice and client health outcomes. Certificates are provided. Instructor is
Alison Bonnyman, a physiotherapist, founder of Canadian Aquatic Rehab Instructors and International Aquatic Therapy Faculty certified. Alison Bonnyman is a physiotherapist who has taught advanced aquatic therapy across Canada and internationally. Her practical, research-backed approach will make for an informative, fun and healthy evening.
Half-day Foundational Aquatic Therapy,
Part 2, The Practical
Date: Saturday April 4, 2020, 8:00am to 12:00pm
Location: Spray Lakes Family Aquatic Centre,
800 Griffin Rd E,
Cochrane, AB T4C 2B8
Instructors: Alison Bonnyman, PT
; Facebook at Canadian Aquatic Rehab
Fee: $150 each 1/2 day session | $275 for full day | $500 for 2 days
Course Description:
An indepth and applied study of hydrodynamics as applied to the physiology of immersion and exercise prescription.
You want to take full advantage of the immersive benefits for all populations and conditions. Contraindications and
precautions are detailed and you learn to modify your exercises and maximize your pool time with individuals with
challenging health conditions. The focus will be on effective treatment programs to address therapeutic goals such as
strength, ROM, balance, gait and function. This course offers 2.5 hours of in-pool sessions. Manuals are provided. All
participants are required to complete the 1-hour online Part 1,Foundational Aquatic Therapy course
( prior to Part 2.
SCHEDULE:
8am to 9:15am – Land Lecture -Hydrodynamics; Evidence-Based, Condition specific;
9:30 to 12:00pm – Pool Practicum: Hydrodynamics applied; techniques to achieve therapeutic goals
To Register: email Alison @
(Registration is complete upon completion of e-Transfer payment)
Half-day Aquatic Therapy in Paediatrics: An Update
Date: Saturday April 4, 2020, 1:00pm - 5:00pm
Location: Spray Lakes Family Aquatic Centre,
800 Griffin Rd E,
Cochrane, AB T4C 2B8
Instructors: Alison Bonnyman, PT
; Facebook at Canadian Aquatic Rehab
Fee: $150 each 1/2 day session | $275 for full day | $500 for 2 days
Course Description:
This half-day course is for therapists who value the enhanced environment of water to facilitate directed, therapeutic play for children with special needs. A review of the evidence, hydrodynamics and current practice trends is followed by 2+-hours of in-pool practice. 1:1 techniques to engage righting reactions, reduce spasticity, stimulate fine motor control, trunk control and cognitive engagement will be practiced.
SCHEDULE:
1pm – 2:15pm – recent research; protocols; therapeutic goals
2:30 – 5pm - Pool Practicum: ASD, spasticity, trunk control, Halliwick Method techniques
To Register: email Alison @
(Registration is complete upon completion of e-Transfer payment)
Half-Day Aquatic Therapy for the Ortho Client
Date: Sunday April 5, 2020, 8:00am - 12:00pm
Location: Spray Lakes Family Aquatic Centre,
800 Griffin Rd E,
Cochrane, AB T4C 2B8
Instructors: Alison Bonnyman, PT
; Facebook at Canadian Aquatic Rehab
Fee: $150 each 1/2 day session | $275 for full day | $500 for 2 days
Course Description:
Objectives for this course are to explore the theory, share the most recent evidence and aquatic techniques to attain
power, endurance, range, function, sport and cardiovascular goals. This includes Chronic Low Back Pain, THR, TKA,
Shoulder Replacement, and we will touch on the injured athlete. Find out why and how aquatic therapy can
enhance your treatment outcomes.
SCHEDULE:
8am – 9:15 – Land Workshop: Recent research, Pain education, collaborative approach
9:30 – 12:00 – Pool Practicum: Ai Chi; passive techniques; functional goals and cardiovascular component
To Register: email Alison @
(Registration is complete upon completion of e-Transfer payment)
Foundational Aquatic Therapy: Part 2, Practical
Date: Friday May 8, 2020, 1:00pm - 5:00pm
Location: The Days Inn of Lindsay
134 Angeline Street South
Lindsay, ON K9V 3L6
Instructors: Audrey Collins, PTA, International Aquatic Therapy Faculty (cert)
; Facebook at Canadian Aquatic Rehab
Fee: $160.00
Course Description:
To review hydrodynamics, physiology of immersion, pool hygiene and applied aquatic rehabilitation. Focus will be on the treatment of individuals with common conditions (TKR, LBP, Stroke) with emphasis on the management of precautions and identifying contraindications. Three hours of in-pool practice of techniques to address common patient goals, both group and 1:1 approach. This course is open to PTs, OTs, PTA/OTAs, Rehab Assistants, Chiros. Small class size of 7.
UPCOMING & CURRENT
COURSE OFFERINGS
Virtual Aquatic Therapy Interest Group
Date: April 12, 2021 from 7:30 to 8:30 pm EST on Zoom
Location: Zoom - email for the link and password
Purpose: A Check in with our colleagues- New pools! Aquatic Therapy during COVID.
Research to enhance practice. Canadian Aquatic Therapy Conference 2021!
Aquatic Therapy - "Move with Ease"
Date: Fall of 2021
Location: Spray Lakes Family Aquatic Centre,
800 Griffin Rd E,
Cochrane, AB T4C 2B8
Limited to: 30 participants
Cost: $10 entrance fee
RSVP at
Instructors: Alison Bonnyman, PT
; Facebook at Canadian Aquatic Rehab
Course Description:
Come and find out why a dip in the beautiful Spray Lakes warm water pool (32C) is so good for you! Water
immersion is a powerful therapy. We meet on the pool deck at 6:30pm and spend the next 2 hours exploring all the
benefits of moving with ease, off-loading joints and gently challenging balance and core strength. This session goes
to 8:30pm and is open to the Cochrane community… you don’t need to be a healthcare provider to appreciate healing
waters!
CARI courses provide an up-to-date review of the research, techniques and protocols in aquatic therapy. Assessment,
treatment, progression and goal attainment in the water environment are addressed. Come away with creative,
specific aquatic tools to enhance your practice and client health outcomes. Certificates are provided. Instructor is
Alison Bonnyman, a physiotherapist, founder of Canadian Aquatic Rehab Instructors and International Aquatic Therapy Faculty certified. Alison Bonnyman is a physiotherapist who has taught advanced aquatic therapy across Canada and internationally. Her practical, research-backed approach will make for an informative, fun and healthy evening.
All CARI Courses Postponed due to COVID-19. Connect on Facebook for for events, too!
Half-day Foundational Aquatic Therapy,
Part 2, The Practical
Date: Fall of 2021
Location: Spray Lakes Family Aquatic Centre,
800 Griffin Rd E,
Cochrane, AB T4C 2B8
Instructors: Alison Bonnyman, PT
; Facebook at Canadian Aquatic Rehab
Fee: $150 each 1/2 day session | $275 for full day | $500 for 2 days
Course Description:
An indepth and applied study of hydrodynamics as applied to the physiology of immersion and exercise prescription.
You want to take full advantage of the immersive benefits for all populations and conditions. Contraindications and
precautions are detailed and you learn to modify your exercises and maximize your pool time with individuals with
challenging health conditions. The focus will be on effective treatment programs to address therapeutic goals such as
strength, ROM, balance, gait and function. This course offers 2.5 hours of in-pool sessions. Manuals are provided. All
participants are required to complete the 1-hour online Part 1,Foundational Aquatic Therapy course
( prior to Part 2. Prerequisite: Online Foundational Part 1.
SCHEDULE:
8am to 9:15am – Land Lecture -Hydrodynamics; Evidence-Based, Condition specific;
9:30 to 12:00pm – Pool Practicum: Hydrodynamics applied; techniques to achieve therapeutic goals
To Register: email Alison @
(Registration is complete upon completion of e-Transfer payment)
Half-day Aquatic Therapy in Paediatrics: An Update
Date: Fall of 2021
Location: Spray Lakes Family Aquatic Centre,
800 Griffin Rd E,
Cochrane, AB T4C 2B8
Instructors: Alison Bonnyman, PT
; Facebook at Canadian Aquatic Rehab
Fee: $150 each 1/2 day session | $275 for full day | $500 for 2 days
Course Description:
This half-day course is for therapists who value the enhanced environment of water to facilitate directed, therapeutic play for children with special needs. A review of the evidence, hydrodynamics and current practice trends is followed by 2+-hours of in-pool practice. 1:1 techniques to engage righting reactions, reduce spasticity, stimulate fine motor control, trunk control and cognitive engagement will be practiced. Prerequisite: Online Part 1 Foundational Aquatic Therapy.
SCHEDULE:
1pm – 2:15pm – recent research; protocols; therapeutic goals
2:30 – 5pm - Pool Practicum: ASD, spasticity, trunk control, Halliwick Method techniques
To Register: email Alison @
(Registration is complete upon completion of e-Transfer payment)
Half-Day Aquatic Therapy for the Ortho Client
Date: Fall of 2021
Location: Spray Lakes Family Aquatic Centre,
800 Griffin Rd E,
Cochrane, AB T4C 2B8
Instructors: Alison Bonnyman, PT
; Facebook at Canadian Aquatic Rehab
Fee: $150 each 1/2 day session | $275 for full day | $500 for 2 days
Course Description:
Objectives for this course are to explore the theory, share the most recent evidence and aquatic techniques to attain
power, endurance, range, function, sport and cardiovascular goals. This includes Chronic Low Back Pain, THR, TKA,
Shoulder Replacement, and we will touch on the injured athlete. Find out why and how aquatic therapy can
enhance your treatment outcomes. Prerequisite: Online Part 1 Foundational Aquatic Therapy.
SCHEDULE:
8am – 9:15 – Land Workshop: Recent research, Pain education, collaborative approach
9:30 – 12:00 – Pool Practicum: Ai Chi; passive techniques; functional goals and cardiovascular component
To Register: email Alison @
(Registration is complete upon completion of e-Transfer payment)
Half-Day Aquatic Therapy for Gait & Balance
Date: Fall of 2021
Location: Spray Lakes Family Aquatic Centre,
800 Griffin Rd E,
Cochrane, AB T4C 2B8
Instructors: Alison Bonnyman, PT
; Facebook at Canadian Aquatic Rehab
Fee: $150 each 1/2 day session | $275 for full day | $500 for 2 days
Course Description:
Evidence-based application of hydrodynamics focused on gait and balance retraining in adults. Assessment on deck and in pool for immediate feedback for patient and therapist. Creative manipulation of depth, turbulence, equipment, stabilization, and suspension will provide you with limitless ideas when responding to your patient’s specific needs. Prerequisite: Online Part 1 Foundational Aquatic Therapy.
SCHEDULE:
1pm – 2:15 – Land workshop: Land versus water, mechanics, research
2:30 – 5:00 – Pool Practicum: applied hydrodynamics to gait cycle, safe & progressive balance challenges
To Register: email Alison @
(Registration is complete upon completion of e-Transfer payment)
Foundational Aquatic Therapy: Part 2, Practical
Date: TBA
Location: The Days Inn of Lindsay
134 Angeline Street South
Lindsay, ON K9V 3L6
Instructors: Audrey Collins, PTA, International Aquatic Therapy Faculty (cert)
; Facebook at Canadian Aquatic Rehab
Fee: $160.00
Course Description:
Half-day course to apply hydrodynamics, physiology of immersion, pool hygiene and practice aquatic rehabilitation. Focus will be on the treatment of individuals with common conditions (TKR, LBP, Stroke) with emphasis on the management of precautions and identifying contraindications. Three hours of in-pool practice of techniques to address common patient goals, both group and 1:1 approach. This course is open to PTs, OTs, PTA/OTAs, Rehab Assistants, Chiros. Small class size of 7.
All CARI Courses Postponed due to COVID-19.
Paediatric Aquatic Therapy Workshop
Date: To reschedule, 2021
Location: Southlake Regional Health Centre
596 Davis Drive
Newmarket, ON
Instructor: Alison Bonnyman, PT, IATF (cert).
Fee $275
This course is to optimize the enhanced water environment to facilitate directed, therapeutic play for children with special needs. We will review hydrodynamics, current practice trends and exciting new research. Aquatic therapy techniques to reduce spasticity, stimulate fine motor control, trunk control, righting reactions and cognitive engagement will be practiced.
2-Day Advanced Aquatic Therapy Workshop
Date: Postponed till 2021 - Tentative Dates: October 30 & 31, 2021
Location: Saint John Regional Hospital
400 University Street
Saint John, NB E2L 4L2
Looking forward to heading East! Content to include Neuro, Paeds, Gait&Balance.
DETAILS TO FOLLOW.