The History of Ai Chi
Ai Chi originated in Japan in 1993. Jun Konno, founder of Aqua Dynamics Institute in Yokohama, created Ai Chi based on his experiences as an Olympic swim coach and his observations of the Japanese preference to exercise. He developed both the physical postures and the mental concepts behind AI Chi, a modern technique that draws upon ancient Eastern thought. Ai Chi offered a steppingstone from the hands-on aspect of Watsu but now stands alone as a unique form of aquatic exercise and relaxation.
Ruth Sova worked closely with Jun Konno to finalize the concepts, suggested names for each of the postures, and offered ideas for incorporating the Cultivating the Chi postures to allow a chance to enjoy the relaxation before moving to the Total Coordinated Body postures. She also suggested the name and has helped to share Ai Chi with the world.
The Basics
Ai Chi involves flowing, breath-centered movements performed in a continuous pattern. It is performed in an upright, vertical position with the body immersed to the neck. Created by combining Tai-Chi concepts with Shiatsu and Watsu® techniques, Ai Chi uses a combination of deep breathing and slow, broad movements of the arms, legs, and torso. Ai Chi is made up of 19 postures. The program is planned with smooth transitions between each posture to allow for flowing, continual movement. Each new posture in the sequence begins where the previous posture ended. More force is not applied in one portion of the posture. Practicing Ai Chi helps prepare you to lead others through the postures. On the other hand, teaching Ai Chi helps you learn how to make others more comfortable and successful in their own practice.
There are three basic Ai Chi concepts: Roundness, Flow, and Alignment.
Roundness recognizes that a pliant body and mind will move and adapt easier. Round movements mimic nature and, when performed slowly, allow for reflection.
Flow is seen with continuous movements with equal force being applied throughout the posture. Flowing movements encourage pain-free range of motion.
Alignment puts attention on proper movement mechanics through each posture to help relearn and reinforce proper form and offers carryover to movement on land.
Ai Chi is an aquatic modality that can be used with groups or one-on-one. Aquatic therapy and rehabilitation practitioners, exercise instructors, and personal trainers will find Ai Chi to be beneficial, offering a flowing yet powerful progression that can be adapted and modified to meet a wide range of needs and goals.
While some therapy protocols can be used with only a specific population group, Ai Chi has been successfully used with pain management, arthritis, fibromyalgia, COPD, balance deficits, diabetes, MS, prenatal, etc., and with neurological and orthopedic diagnoses.
Ai Chi is an efficient exercise program that increases oxygen and caloric consumption simply through correct form and positioning in the water. It is a perfect relaxation technique for highly stressed, over-challenged clients. It is also an ideal option for improving range of motion and mobility.
Ai Chi International Instructor Certification
An Ai Chi International Certified Ai Chi Instructor has successfully completed the requirements of the blended course that includes the in-person or virtually live through Zoom AND the online education component PLUS has successfully completed the required exam. The Ai Chi International Certified Ai Chi Instructor must also maintain CPR/AED training throughout the certification term. The Ai Chi International Certified Ai Chi Instructor is qualified to teach Ai Chi group classes, use Ai Chi in one-on-one therapy rehab or personal training, and do in-service trainings to teach Ai Chi to colleagues.
Obtaining Ai Chi Instructor Certification
To achieve Ai Chi International Instructor Certification, candidates must: 1) successfully complete both the Ai Chi Basic Training/Cert Prep Course and the Ai Chi Principles & Foundations Online Education Course, 2) successfully pass the examination, and 3) maintain current and valid basic CPR/AED certification.
Ai Chi Certification Alternative – Obtaining Ai Chi Certification through Online Education Learning through the older version training course, please click here to access the Ai Chi Certification previously recorded through ATRI. Available for a limited time through 12/31/2025. Click here to review older version training course.
Link to: https://aea.thinkific.com/courses/ai-chi-certification
Ai Chi Certification Training Courses NEW!
Ai Chi Basic Training (In-Person/Virtually Live Course)
CEC/CEUS: AEA/AEA AF 4.0, ACE 0.4, AFAA 3.0, ATRI 4.0, NASM 0.3
Take your Ai Chi experience to a new level. This course focuses on the practical aspect of leading Ai Chi and is one component for Ai Chi Certification. Review and refresh your understanding of the basic concepts and benefits of Ai Chi, including insight into applications for diverse populations. Prepare yourself to offer the best Ai Chi techniques by exploring teaching tips, practicing the postures in the classroom (which will assist with safe and effective deck instruction) and in the water, and developing leadership skills through partner activities. Consider modifications and variations applicable to different pool environments and aquatic programming to find your niche for leading Ai Chi in group fitness, personal training, or therapy and rehab.
Ai Chi Principles & Foundation (Online Education Component – Summer 2025)
CEC/CEUs: AEA/AEA AF 4.0, ATRI 4.0
Learning the physical movement patterns is the first step in appreciating the rewards of Ai Chi. This course is designed to explore the benefits of Ai Chi and why these concepts are so effective, guiding you toward a stronger practice, both personally and professionally. Look deeper into breathing (the science, various techniques, relationship with the vagus nerve) and the strong connection of breath to Ai Chi’s numerous benefits. Learn helpful hints for various populations to guide participants toward a more enjoyable and effective practice. Ai Chi can be an excellent addition to aquatic group fitness, personal training, therapy, and rehab.
Check out the Calendars at aeawave.org for more information or courses coming soon!