The Halliwick Concept focuses on biophysical principles of motor control in water, in particular developing sense of balance (equilibrioception) and core stability.
Based on fluid mechanics, McMillan developed teaching and therapeutic approaches to enhance sense of balance (equilibrioception) and core stability.
McMillan emphasized participation and independence: the willingness to lose balance and knowing how to stand up again.
Halliwick also has a passive (static) component, in which, for example involving selective activation of muscles and stabilization of specific joints by the therapist.
Many activities easily can be repeated and varied and clients can learn balance- and stumble- strategies, which have carry-over effects to dry land.