Landscape & Urban Design Issue 24 2017 | Page 32

Dive into Pool Fitness and Get Uplifted It may be wintertime, but that doesn't mean taking a dip in the pool should be ruled out. J water can provide countlessly health benefits as well as being fun - and ideal for your wellbeing! Do it with friends and it's even more fun! According to SPATA (Swimming Pool and Allied Trades Association), there are an estimated 240,000 in-ground and above-ground privately- owned swimming pools in the UK, with up to 60% being located in Southern England. ust 30 minutes of swimming three times a week alongside a balanced, health diet and lifestyle is one of the best ways to stay fit and healthy and maintain a positive mental outlook. Both indoor and outdoor swimming pools across the UK are providing opportunities for those who are looking to get fit through water aerobics, swimming, and other aquatic activities. Whether you use a public pool or have access to a private swimming pool, keeping fit in 32 Landscape & Urban Design Swimming is a great recreational activity for people of all ages. Recreational swimming can provide you with a low-impact workout, and it's also a good way to relax and feel good. Water Fitness offers more resistance than when exercising (compared to exercising out of the water) and also allows people to do exercises that are difficult for them to do on dry land. Those worried about “breaking a sweat” should also know that water disperses heat more efficiently, so there is less chance of overheating: the water continuously cools the body. Swimming is one of the most efficient ways to burn calories. A gentle swim can burn over 200 calories in just half an hour, more than double that of walking. A faster swim will help ensure that any extra weight gained over the Christmas and New Year seasonal holidays and gone quicker than if you went running or cycling. www.spata.co.uk