Aqua Jogger – Runner’s Rehab Kit Review

A couple of weeks ago I posted about pool running as a great option for cross-training during injury. I recently received an Aqua Jogger Runner’s Rehab Kit to test out and review. Today, I decided to hit the pool and give it a test drive.

Runner’s Rehab Kit

The Runner’s Rehab Kit consists of a flotation belt, Aquarunners Rx (buoyant shoes), a tether (to keep you stationary if desired), a mesh bag for toting the gear around, and some other helpful booklets and a DVD. When you order a kit, you are asked about your height and weight, since there are several flotation belt options to accommodate different shapes and sizes.

Since I have done pool running before, I didn’t watch the entire instructional DVD, though I would recommend doing so if you have never run in the pool. Instead, I headed to the YMCA to do some aqua jogging.

I like the fact that the mesh tote was included with the gear– it is very roomy with plenty of room for the gear and anything else you would want to bring. The belt itself is very comfortable– there is a great deal of room for expanding or cinching the adjustable waist band. I actually wore a bikini for my aqua jogging, and I was surprised that I didn’t experience any irritation from the belt on my bare skin.

Using the Aquarunners

During my 45 minute “run,” I experimented with and without using the Aquarunners provided in the Rehab Kit. I started with them, took them off, and then decided to put them back on again. The shoes are one-size, but fully adjustable. I actually preferred running with the shoes. I don’t know if it was psychological and running with the shoes just made it “seem” more like running or whether it was the shoes themselves. According to Aqua Jogger, the Aqua Runners help provide a greater cardiovascular workout and toning for your lower legs. This makes sense, since they are increasing the resistance against your feet as you pool run.

Tether

I opted not to use the tether, since it made me feel more productive to actually run down the swimming lane. I can see where it would be practical if you had to confine yourself to a smaller area or if you wanted to use it as resistance when stationary pool running.

Overall Impressions

All in all, I am very pleased with the Aqua Jogger Runner’s Rehab Kit and will definitely be incorporating pool running into my weekly training. I think it’s especially refreshing to hit the pool in the dark winter months. It’s a change of pace from the norm and the zero impact allows you to maintain your aerobic capacity without any wear and tear on your joints.

You can visit the AquaJogger website for more information on the Runner’s Rehab Kit, other AquaJogger products, and pool running in general.

AquaJogger  provided 30 Something Mother Runner with a complimentary Runner’s Rehab Kit for this product review. I did not receive any payment for writing this review, and all writing and opinions reflected in this review are my own.