Are floor exercises required for all AFEP classes to ensure all muscle groups are effectively targeted?

The assertion that floor exercises are required for all Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program (AFEP) classes is inaccurate. The focus of these classes is to provide participants, especially those with arthritis, a safe and supportive environment to improve their flexibility, strength, and overall function.

In many cases, aquatic exercise is sufficient to effectively engage various muscle groups without the need for floor exercises. Water's buoyancy supports the body, reducing impact and stress on joints while allowing for a range of motion that promotes muscle engagement. In fact, by using water resistance, class leaders can effectively target all major muscle groups and provide a full-body workout in the aquatic environment alone.

Moreover, the AFEP is designed to accommodate participants of all levels, meaning that adaptations can be made depending on individual needs, exercise interactions, or participant preferences without necessitating ground-based exercises. This flexibility exemplifies the program's commitment to inclusivity and the specific health considerations of individuals with arthritis, making floor exercises non-essential for every class setting.