How does the Aqua-Ω work?
The Aqua-Ω works because of drag resistance, not through stretching it. A famous quote of my at the time 11-year old son trying out the Aqua-Ohm in the living room is: "Mom, it doesn't do anything." The next day he happened to be in the pool and after I handed him the Aqua-Ω there, he was surprised that he could barely move it around. "This is heavy!" was his remark at that time!
You can use it in deep or shallow water, depending on your goal and skill level.
In the shallow water, contact with the bottom of the pool will assist you with your postural alignment and you will have more effect on bone density.
In deep water, your core stability will be challenged more. However, the Aqua-Ω will NOT provide flotation while using it in deep water. Please use your preferred method of buoyancy such as a belt or a pair of ankle cuffs. You can even choose to sit on a noodle. Be aware that when you use the Aqua-Ω in deep water, it will be a greater challenge to maintain proper postural alignment.
To decrease the amount of resistance, shorten the Aqua-Ohm or move SLOWER. By shortening it, the amount of water displaced is less, therefore making it easier. By moving slower, the water has more time to re-adjust to the new position, which will decreases the force it gives back. See all this in action.
How to hold the Aqua-Ω
The Aqua-Ω provides a lot more resistance than most people think, so even when your core and arms seem to be able to handle the amount of drag, your hands might not. We suggest you start out using the Aqua-Ω in the double or even triple folded position to condition your fingers and grasp.
When holding the Aqua-Ω, make sure you wrap your fingers around the handle and give a "thumbs up" with your thumb. You can then place your thumb atop your fingers (see picture) on the outside of the handle. Use the mouse of your hand to push the Aqua-Ohm forward, and your hooked fingers to pull it back again. Be mindful not to let the Aqua-Ω rest too much in the soft area between your thumb and index finger, it could cause discomfort in your wrist or elbow as well. So please be aware of your grip.
How to change the length and resistance level of the Aqua-Ω
Double it up
Easiest adaptation: just fold the Aqua-Ω double by bringing the red handle to the blue, and slide the free handle to the middle.
View a video here to see all these adjustments in action.
Triple it
A little trickier: start at the "Double it up," and move the blue handle handle through the red and bring it down to the other red handle. You might need to wiggle it a little until the Aqua-Ohm is folded in thirds.
Unlimited adjustability
This is mostly used to adjust the length for people with shorter legs and using the Aqua-Ohm for leg exercises. After you have folded the Aqua-Ω in thirds, just keep pulling the the blue handle past that red handle, until the two red handles are tight together. You can repeat the process of looping it until the Aqua-Ω has reached its desired length.
You will have to unloop it to be able to adjust it to the half length again.
Why are there two handle sizes?
We have noticed that most people will do great with the red, regular size handle. Anybody who uses the Aqua-Ω with bare feet or with slip-on style water shoes, should be able to use the regular, red handle.
However, for those who wear sneaker style water shoes or special shoes to accommodate different needs for their feet might want to use the larger, blue handle.
We do recommend to use the smallest handle possible to prevent the Aqua-Ω from slipping around your ankle. See the picture for measurements.
What material is used for the Aqua-Ω ?
The handles are made of a heat-molded PVC. The Hi-Viz Aqua-Ω is made of a vinyl coated polyester, which is also used for those inflatable pool and ocean play structures.
I lost my third handle, now what?
It can be replaced, just contact us at [email protected]
What can I do if the handles feel a bit uncomfortable on my feet?
Make sure the handle around your foot is located towards, or if possible, in the arch of your sole, so you can land on the ball of your foot, or tap your toes to the ground to assist with balance. If it is still uncomfortable, we suggest to wear water-shoes. Also, over time your feet will adjust to having the handle in the arch and you might like the stretch it provides to your plantar muscles.
Can I use the Aqua-Ω in deep water?
Yes, you can! However, the Aqua-Ω itself does not provide any buoyancy so use your favorite flotation device. The Aqua-Ohm works with belt, noodle, water horse by Karen Westfall's WaterWorkout.com, or pool saddle by Hydrofit.com; and depending on your skill level and core control even with Hydrofit.com's buoyant ankle cuffs. Those were my preference before the FitnessBuoy by BodyBuoy.com came on the market.
Want to try it? Get it here
Warranty and return policy
The Aqua-Ω is under full warranty for material and workmanship for 12 months, when used and cared for according to instructions. Contact us in case of any problems. Be aware: the Aqua-Ω is not elastic. Do not put excessive force on it, it really will not get any longer 😀.
You can return the Aqua-Ω within 30 days of purchase date, in barely used condition. Return shipping needs to be paid by buyer. You will receive a full refund, minus shipping and handling fees. Contact us at [email protected] in case of any questions or problems.
It might happen that the logo will start to peel, crack, or get damaged. When this happens, it does not affect the functionality of your Aqua-Ohm nor is there a defect in material or workmanship. It just means that our silent form of advertising is fading😉.
After some use, you might see some lint or fuzzies on the edges. This is normal, it is the polyester fiber with which the vinyl has been reinforced. This is normal wear and tear and agan, it will not affect the functionality of the equipment.
Safety Precautions
When using the Aqua-Ohm, you agree that you have read the instructions and exercise examples as well as all the information on this page, and that you are capable of using the Aqua-Ω safely. You are aware that the Aqua-Ω does not work through stretch, but simply with drag resistance. It does not provide buoyancy and can not be used as flotation support when exercising in deep water.
You represent that your physical condition permits you to safely use the Aqua-Ω and you agree to release One Step Beyond, Inc. and all associated businesses, companies, manufacturers of all or part of the Aqua-Ohm, and any instructors/ presenters from any and all liability, injuries, and damages that may arise out of your using the Aqua-Ohm.
Be safe‼️
Any time you feel any discomfort other than a mild burn in your muscles, or when you feel dizzy or faint, discontinue exercising! Check with your physician if it is safe for you to exercise.
Care Instructions
After each use, rinse and hang to dry, or quickly run the Aqua-Ω along a towel. If you want to use disinfectant, please use a non-alcohol/ non-solvent based one, and use it according to the manufacturer's guidelines. Do not hang the equipment in direct sunlight. Do not roll it up unless it is completely dry. Do not store in temperatures over 110℉ since this could cause the handles to deform, especially if you hang your Aqua-Ω to store. Once dry you can fold it or roll it. Take it traveling, it is so light and small!
