Over 60's
Take the plunge with the 60+ Free Swimming Initiative!
Why not take the plunge! - if you're 60 years or over and
looking to try something different then the 'Free Swimming
Initiative' aimed to get people healthier and more physically
active may be just what you're looking for.
During selected sessions people aged 60 yrs and over are able to
access swimming pools for FREE in Wales.
If swimming laps aren't your thing, there are plenty of other
water activities you could try. Try walking or running in water,
which many people find easier to do than on land. Treading water
can be exhausting but will help tone your legs and arms.
Many pools also offer a FREE activity with an Instructor each
week, this may vary from pool to pool, so it's always worth
checking in advance. But why not bring your friends along to one of
the following:
- AquaFit session;
- Learning to swim;
- Stroke Improvement sessions;
- AquaGym workout.
Please note, check with a doctor before beginning your exercise
program, especially if you have chronic back, joint, heart, or
inner-ear problems.
To find out more information on Free Swimming including
testimonies from current scheme users, listen to the Free swimming
podcast.
Why Swimming?
Swimming has a number of benefits, some of which include;
Improving your fitness
Swimming tones your entire body whilst improving cardiovascular
conditioning, muscle strength, endurance, posture, and flexibility
all at the same time. A workout routine that includes swimming can
help reduce high blood pressure, which lowers your risk for heart
disease and stroke.
Reduced risk of injuries from swimming
activities
There is a low risk of any swimming injuries because there's no
stress on your bones, joints or connective tissues due to buoyancy.
If you're looking for a safe daily workout routine, swimming is
ideal because you can rigorously work out with a reduced chance of
swimming injuries.
Help to lose weight
If you're looking to lose weight, swimming is just the ticket.
On average, a swimmer can burn as many calories in an hour as a
runner who runs six miles in one hour.
Meet new people
Whether it's taking part in a swimming session or activity the
pool is a great place to meet new people or take your friends along
to do something fun!
Stress reduction
Swimming is extremely relaxing because it allows more oxygen to
flow to your muscles and forces you to regulate your breathing.
It's also a great way to relieve stress.