When we think about getting fit, swimming isn’t always the first thing that comes to mind. Many people dismiss it as just a leisure activity, but the truth is, swimming is one of the most effective, full-body workouts available—offering benefits that go far beyond fitness alone.
At Life Leisure, we believe that movement is for everyone, and the water is one of the best places to build strength, boost mental wellbeing, and enjoy exercise with less strain on the body. Whether you want to improve your fitness, relieve stress, or simply feel better in yourself, swimming could be the missing piece of your routine.
Why swimming?
Water-based exercise isn’t just refreshing—it’s a powerhouse for physical and mental wellbeing. The buoyancy of water means less strain on your joints while still providing a fantastic workout. It’s perfect for people of all fitness levels, whether you’re recovering from an injury, dealing with joint pain, or just starting your fitness journey. Unlike many land-based workouts that focus on specific muscles, swimming works everything—your arms, legs, core, and back—helping to build strength and endurance.
Swimming also naturally improves cardiovascular fitness, helping to lower blood pressure, increase lung capacity, and promote better circulation. Beyond the physical benefits, water has a naturally calming effect. The rhythmic breathing, weightlessness, and gentle resistance make swimming a fantastic way to clear your mind, ease tension, and lift your mood. Additionally, the fluid movements of swimming support joint flexibility and reduce stiffness, making everyday tasks easier and more comfortable.
The rise of water-based exercise
Water-based exercise is gaining popularity across all age groups, with more people recognising its unique benefits. According to Swim England, swimming participation has surged in recent years, with over 4 million adults in the UK swimming at least twice a month. Many find it easier to stick with compared to high-impact workouts, especially during colder months when indoor pools offer a warm and inviting alternative to outdoor exercise. Additionally, aquatic workouts like aqua aerobics are increasingly becoming staples in fitness routines for older adults and those recovering from injury thanks to their low-impact nature and joint-friendly benefits. Whether you’re looking for a seasonal switch-up or a long-term addition to your routine, water-based exercise is proving to be a key player in active lifestyles.
Swimming in Stockport
With five Life Leisure pools across Stockport, there are plenty of ways to get involved:
- General Swim/Lane Swim session: A relaxed swim at your own pace—perfect for clearing your mind and staying active. Whether you want to swim for fun, with the family, or for fitness, our General Swim sessions are open for everyone to enjoy the pool. If you want to focus more on structured length swimming, Lane Swims might be a better fit for you.
- Aqua Aerobics: Popular, fun, low-impact, yet effective workout in the water; great for meeting new people and embedding activity into your routine.
- Family swimming: Our General Swim/Fun Swim sessions are a fun and active way to spend quality time together as a family.
View all swim sessions on offer here.
Where to swim with Life Leisure:
- Life Leisure Avondale (Cheadle Heath)
- Life Leisure Cheadle
- Life Leisure Grand Central (Stockport town centre)
- Life Leisure Hazel Grove
- Life Leisure Romiley
If you’ve been overlooking swimming as a workout, now is the time to reconsider. Whether you’re diving in for fitness, recovery, or relaxation, every movement in the water brings benefits for your body and mind.
Find your nearest pool and take the plunge into better health today: https://www.lifeleisure.net/centres/
