Start Swimming this Summer

Whether you used to swim for your county or you’re yet to master breaststroke, swimming is a great way to keep fit and de-stress.

The benefits of swimming

Swimming has numerous benefits for your health. According to the NHS, regular swimming can reduce your risk of serious illness, including heart disease and type 2 diabetes. It can also help to build muscle strength. And it’s a great stress reliever. But most importantly, swimming is an essential life skill that helps to keep you safe around water. And it can be a lot of fun!

All-inclusive

Swimming is a low-impact activity, so most people can benefit from it, even if you have mobility issues or joint pain. As Paralympic medallist Matthew Whorwood says, “Swimming is great because it’s non-impact and a good way to get fit without risking injury. Also, once you’re in the pool you’re the same as everyone else, any physical disabilities are irrelevant.” Many swimming pools now have lifts to help wheelchair users in and out of the pool, and sessions aimed at swimmers with disabilities.

Learning to swim

Almost a third of adults in the UK can’t swim a length. But you’re never too old (or too young) to learn to swim. More than 1,000 centres across the UK offer adult-only swim classes. As well as courses for complete beginners, many centres offer coaching for people who want to improve their techniques, and advanced classes for swimmers who are training for a triathlon or other event. Whichever camp you’re in, head to www.swimming.org/learntoswim to find an accredited course.

Taking your hobby to the next level

Are you a competent swimmer who fancies an extra challenge? Why not try competing? Races are usually seeded, which means you’ll be competing against people at a similar level. And results are ranked in five-year age groups. If you’re interested in competing regularly, it might be worth joining a swimming club. As well as helping you to improve your skills, it’s also a great way to meet new people. Visit www.swimming.org/masters to find out more.

Where to swim

You’ll likely need to become a member of your local leisure centre or private fitness centre to use its pool, but some do offer day passes. If you’re over 60 or on a low income, it’s worth applying for a Passport to Leisure card, which gives you a discount off leisure centre fees. (Some councils run their own scheme instead.) Ask your local leisure centre for details. If you prefer swimming outdoors, there are numerous lidos and community pools around the UK. And, of course, you could also try open-water swimming, in the sea, lakes or pools. Just check that swimming is permitted and always make sure that you have someone with you. You can find advice about open water swimming, and a list of sites, at www.swimming.org/openwater.