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Swimming

7 good reasons to head to your local pool…

From keeping fit improving mental health, going for a swim has many positive benefits

If you’re looking to get moving and want to add an activity to your week that has both physical and mental benefits, why not give swimming a go?

The benefits of swimming are wide ranging, whether you have dementia or not. In fact, specific studies have been conducted around how swimming can help those living with dementia and found it helped with balance, fitness, mood and concentration.

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7 reasons to go for a swim

1. It’s a low impact exercise, so won’t stress your joints

2. It’s calming and relaxing and helps reduce anxiety

3. It boosts your mood

4. It can leave you feeling more alert and improve concentration

5. It improves fitness

6. It can help reduce pain

7. It can help beat loneliness by keeping you connected to others

How to get the most out of swimming

If you already enjoy a swim, keep going. There’s lots of evidence to show that it’s hugely beneficial to you. 

If you’ve not been swimming for a while, or might have lost confidence, there are some tips that might help entice you back to the pool.

Go to your local pool and ask for a familiarisation session. They’ll show you around the changing areas and poolside. 

Don’t be afraid to ask questions:

  • Are changing facilities mixed?

  • What are the showers like?

  • Do you need a coin for the locker?  

  • When’s the best time to swim?

  • What do you need to bring with you – e.g. are swimming hats compulsory?

  • Is there somewhere to go for a coffee and chat after?

Don’t think swimming isn’t for you. Some people feel that their aches and pains means swimming is off limits. But swimming has been shown to ease joint pain, is a low impact activity and is easy on the joints. If in any doubt about swimming, speak to your GP first.

Ask a friend or loved one to go with you. Swimming is a fun, relaxing and sociable activity – especially if you go with someone else. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy being active with others – and there’s always the chance of a hot drink and a chat afterwards. 

Find a pool near you and contact them to ask about specific swim sessions. You might find that there are dementia-friendly swim-based classes – take a look on our local directory and search by postcode.