We all know that we need to do plenty of activity to stay well and healthy, but for many of us going to gym or taking part in competitive sport just doesn’t suit us. Thankfully there are lots of ways to get the exercise we need…

We’ve previously looked at dancing, walking and Qigong. Today, we’re looking at swimming.

Swimming is perfect for these cold winter days and dark evenings if you don’t feel motivated to go outside – an indoor swimming pool offers a warm, bright environment. It’s also an important life skill for us all, for safety and confidence around water, regardless of age. Swimming is fantastic as an all-round form of activity, working our entire bodies and cardiovascular system, no matter our age or level of fitness. 

Swimming regularly can reduce our risk of serious illness like heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke, as well as helping us to lose weight, be more flexible, stronger and more mobile. Just one hour of swimming burns almost as many calories as running. It increases our heart rate without stressing our body, as well as toning our muscles and building our endurance. 

And did you know that swimming can also lower our blood pressure, boost our energy levels, improve coordination, balance and posture? It can also improve our mood, reduce stress levels and help us sleep better!

Another great thing about swimming is that it’s perfect for older people, and people with weight-gain issues or with mobility problems, as the water helps to reduce the strain on our bones, bodies and joints. Just remember that if you have a health condition you should ask your GP before you start swimming. 

Worried that you can’t swim, haven’t tried swimming before or have a fear of water? Ask your local pool for beginners’ lessons for all ages to help get you started and feel more confident. 

Or perhaps you don’t want to go swimming alone? If so, why not ask a friend, neighbour or take your children or grandchildren? Or join a swimming club which might help you make new friends too – ask your local pool for details. 

As your confidence grows you can even try a pool fitness class such as ‘aquafit’ or water aerobics, which provide similar benefits to swimming in a more social, fun, group environment. 

Whatever your situation it’s good to warm up and stretch your muscles before entering the water, stay in the shallow area at first, don’t overdo it if you’re just starting out, and remember to have plenty of fluids on hand after your swimming session. 

Swimming is an affordable form of exercise too. Visit Telford & Wrekin Council’s Leisure Services website for details of the four 25 metre length pools across the region, how much sessions cost and offers available. These include Aspirations membership packages, pay-as-you-go swimming sessions, free swimming to some Telford and Wrekin residents and swimming for just £1 for others – use the link above or ask your local leisure centre for more details about these offers.

So, as well as being fun, swimming is a relaxing, low-impact activity in a peaceful environment to help us keep fit, stay healthy and make new friends, throughout our lifetime.  

Now what’s stopping you from ‘making a splash’?