Which category of exercises is most suitable to include in the warm-up for an AFAP class?

Including flexibility, range of motion, muscular strength, and endurance exercises in the warm-up for an Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program class is particularly suitable for several reasons. These types of exercises are designed to prepare the body for the activity that follows by gradually increasing blood flow to the muscles and joints, which is essential for participants who may have arthritis or joint issues.

Warm-up activities that focus on flexibility and range of motion help to improve joint mobility and decrease stiffness, which is especially beneficial for those with arthritis. By incorporating these elements, participants can experience less pain and increased functionality during the main portion of the class. Furthermore, muscular strength and endurance exercises performed at light intensity can help in conditioning the body's muscles, allowing for a more effective and safe workout without overwhelming the participants.

In contrast, cardio exercises may be too intense for a warm-up phase, aquatic games, while enjoyable, might not adequately prepare the muscles and joints, and high-intensity interval training is generally too demanding and not appropriate for the warm-up stage, especially for this demographic. Such alternatives do not focus on the specific needs of individuals with arthritis, making flexibility and strength the most suitable components for a safe and effective warm-up.