What percentage of body weight is typically supported when a person is immersed in water?

When a person is immersed in water, the buoyancy provided by the water significantly reduces the effective weight of the body. This buoyant force allows individuals to experience only a fraction of their actual body weight. Typically, when a person is fully submerged, around 25-35% of their body weight is supported by the water. This range can vary depending on the depth of the water; for example, the deeper the immersion, the more buoyant force is present, thus supporting a larger percentage of body weight. Understanding this principle is essential for fitness instructors, particularly when designing aquatic exercise programs, as it influences the exercises' intensity and the support provided to individuals, especially those with joint issues or rehabilitation needs.