Ukrainian defenders taking part in the programme report significant progress thanks to the aquatic rehabilitation programme.
As part of the "Free Waves" project, war veterans and active defenders in Zaporizhzhia undergo free rehabilitation developed by Olympic medallist Denys Sylantiev. The project has been active in Zaporizhzhia since July 2024, with financial support from Metinvest, Zaporizhstal, and NGO "Zaporizhzhia. Platform for Joint Action".
Among the many participants in the project is serviceman Serhii Imbarovskyi. He joined the "Free Waves" project to improve his health.
"I’ve been suffering from concussions since my time in the ATO. For some, they are physical, for others, they are psychological or emotional. I came across the information about the project. Since I’ve always loved sports and been active in them throughout my life, I decided to take advantage of this opportunity. Trainer Serhii Proniaiev was a great help in improving my technique. He pointed out important details, explained the nuances, and made sure to reinforce them through practice. Life is all about movement, so I believe giving injured servicemen the chance to undergo rehabilitation and recover is a truly worthwhile cause," said project participant SerhiI IMBAROVSKYI.
This is already SerhiI Imbarovskyi’s 12th lesson. He says that the approach used by Olympic medalist Denis Sylantiev, which the trainer applies in the lessons, has been key to his success.
"Some of the participants have concussions, while others have issues with their arms, legs, feet, or shins. There are different problems. We’re doing everything we can to help our military and veterans get back to a normal life,” said swimming trainer Serhii PRONIAIEV.
Another participant in the "Free Waves" project is Serhiy’s brother in arms, Ihor Dikhtiarenko, who has been serving in the military since 1992. He came for swimming rehabilitation to get back to service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
"After a severe concussion, I can barely walk, but in the pool, I feel like I come back to life. I’m really grateful that we, the military, are given the chance to feel whole again. I had already retired from the military, but before the full-scale invasion, a local brigade was formed, and I went to the front as the deputy brigade commander. At the front, I sustained a severe concussion, was injured, and was discharged, but I’m working on getting back to service because this is my profession, my duty," said Ihor DIKHTIARENKO.
Ihor Dikhtiarenko has recently started his rehabilitation and is already seeing progress. The trainer says it is all due to his determination.
"Ihor had problems with his legs. Now, in the water, he was given a full workout, and it was like he came back to life right in front of us. He attends our classes with great enthusiasm. We continue working with him; he's a great guy – really strong-willed," said trainer Serhiy PRONIAIEV.
More than 150 war veterans and active military personnel have already completed rehabilitation as part of the project. Each participant received a personalised approach that delivers results. The importance of swimming rehabilitation is recognized not just by the participants and trainers of the "Free Waves" project, but also by doctors.
"Aquatherapy, or rehabilitation through swimming, is a very modern and holistic approach that helps you feel psychologically relieved. Water is naturally relaxing, and at the same time, swimming engages almost all of the muscles in the body. Therefore, no matter what the injuries, if the patient has the opportunity to contact water, rehabilitation through swimming is very useful," emphasized surgeon, Candidate of Medical Sciences Kostiantyn MYLYTSIA.
Free rehabilitation swimming sessions developed by Olympic medallist Denys Sylantiev take place three times a week. To begin training, participants simply need to present a document confirming their combatant status.
