Swimming

Swimming is any movement by humans in water, usually without artificial assistance, the most common purpose for which is recreation. Recreational swimming is considered by many a good way to relax, while enjoying a good full-body workout. Several swimming styles are suitable for recreational swimming; most recreational swimmers prefer a style that keeps their head out of the water and has an underwater arm recovery, such as breaststroke. An individual's ability to swim can be judged by speed or stamina.

Outdoor swimming is a popular activity, with over 4 million people in the UK taking part each year. Although the sport is relatively safe, the MCA record, on average, 12 fatal incidents per year. When swimming outdoors, follow this safety advice;

  • Designate a responsible adult to watch young children who are swimming or playing in or around the water. Adults should not be involved in any other distracting activity (such as reading, playing cards, talking on the phone, or mowing the lawn) while supervising children.
  • Always swim with a buddy. Select swimming sites that have lifeguards whenever possible and swim between the flags.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol before or during swimming. Avoid drinking alcohol while supervising children.
  • With young children, do not use air-filled or foam toys, such as “water wings”, “noodles”, or inner-tubes, in place of life jackets (personal flotation devices). These toys are not designed to keep swimmers safe.
  • Know the local weather conditions and forecast before swimming. Strong winds and thunderstorms with lightning strikes are dangerous.
  • Heed colored beach warning flags.
  • Watch for dangerous waves and signs of rip currents (e.g. water that is discolored and choppy, foamy, or filled with debris). If you are caught in a rip current, swim parallel to shore; once free of the current, swim toward shore.

For more information about swimming, contact the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) or the Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS) who are the national governing body for lifesaving and lifeguarding.