Make a splash!

Do you regularly rule the pool or does the idea of swimming just conjure up happy memories from your childhood? If it’s the latter, read on to learn why getting back into the pool might be the best decision you make for your health, fitness and your family.

Above all, it’s fun! Think back to your last swim and remember the feeling – a brief chill as you get in, but warming up quickly as you do a few strokes or splash about with friends, ducking and diving down under the water then bobbing back up to the surface. That feeling of tranquillity and weightlessness as you push off the edge and glide through the water. Wouldn’t it be great to feel that way again?

The good news is that regardless of age, weight, fitness level or physical ability swimming is suitable for everyone*, so even if you haven’t been in the pool for years, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t dip your toe back into the water for some family fun, to regain water confidence for a holiday or for exercise.

If you’re looking for a gentle introduction to getting active, you’d be hard pushed to do better than swimming – it’s so easy to go at your own pace while getting a full body workout. No matter how fast you swim or which stroke you choose, propelling your body through the water tones areas that other activities might miss and builds lean muscle mass, while working your heart and lungs. No wonder so many athletes build swimming into their routines to enhance their overall performance and endurance.

In fact, swimming offers loads of other physical benefits. Regular swimming can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. It is also a great calorie burner, torching an average of 400 calories (1000 MOVES) per hour even at a moderate pace, helping with weight loss and control.

Swimming is a winner for mental health too, boosting endorphin levels to reduce stress and help fight off anxiety and depression. It has even been linked with higher brain function and improved academic performance in adolescents – another great reason to get swimming from an early age, as well as it being an important safety skill.

It’s never too early – or too late – to start reaping the many benefits of swimming, so contact your local Places for People Leisure Centre to find out where and when you can make a splash.

Our adult lessons can help you improve your technique or water skills. Plus all Places Members (including pay-as-you-go) get FREE use of Swimtag, swim tracking technology you wear in the pool to count your lengths, learn new strokes, set targets and join challenges.

Go on, get in the swim!