Purpose and Objectives: It has become recognized that physical activity is not only beneficial for treating or preventing major physical illnesses, but also some forms of mental illness. However, there remains a lack of knowledge about the psychological benefits associated with specific exercise regimens, including water exercise, and such information is crucial for establishing exercise programs intended to provide optimal psychological benefits.

Moreover, such exercise programs may also be associated with lower drop-out rates, a major concern as research consistently indicates 50% of individuals who begin exercise programs soon quit. This presentation will summarize the extant findings from a research study funded by the National Swimming Pool Foundation in which the immediate psychological benefits associated with two modes of water exercise are contrasted with comparable dry-land exercise. Initial results regarding exercise preferences for both the mode and intensity of activity will be presented.