FREE SWIMMING FOR OVER 60’S

Key themes covered

1. Free Swimming

In partnership and funded by the Welsh Assembly Government, Bridgend County Borough Council swimming pools provide free swimming for over 60s during public sessions all year round. The Free Swimming Initiative was funded by the Welsh Assembly Government as it provides a safe and supportive environment with reduced risk of injury and falling and because the vast majority of people aged 60 and over can take up and participate in swimming at an appropriate level to them (If you are interested in accessing the free swimming see section 4). Swim 60+ is a membership, for a reduced fee each month includes the Health Suite and Aquafit classes additional to Free Swimming.

2. Learning to swim

BCBC has recognised that many people are unable to access the Free Swimming Initiative because of not being able to swim or poor swimming ability. BCBC now provides FREE swimming lessons in Pyle, Pencoed, Maesteg and Bridgend swimming pools to those aged 60 years and over. Learning to swim can have many benefits, some of these may include: • Confidence building • Meeting people in similar situations • Improvement in swimming ability

3. The Hydro Gym

The Hydro Gym consists of eight exercise stations submerged in water. Bridgend Recreation Centre was one of the first swimming pools in Wales to win a successful grant application for this exciting and invigorating water gymnasium. The system capitalizes on the natural properties of buoyancy and resistance to create a zero impact, complete cardio-vascular and aerobic work out.

Upon completion of medical assessment and Induction FREE casual use is provided for over 60s. For more information contact Bridgend Recreation Centre Tel: 01656 657491.

4. How to join

If you are over the age of 60 and interested in the free swimming scheme, or would like more information on any of these topics please contact you local swimming pool or the Community Swimming Development Officer on 01656641252.

5. GP referral scheme

Revite-a-Life is a group of activities concerned with helping people get involved in mild physical activity. The scheme looks at the rehabilitation of those with certain medical conditions and helping to get people healthy and active. For more information contact Jeannie Wyatt Williams - Healthy Lifestyles Co-ordinator - 01656 641255.

6. Importance of health and physical activity (WAG extract)

As people get older it is important that the added years are accompanied by good health. The benefits of good health are clear: improved quality of life for individuals, more opportunities to remain active in family and community life and maintained independence.

Maintaining and increasing physical activity can bring many important benefits to older people. Moderate exercise can benefit both quality and duration of life, and there is strong evidence for the benefits of exercise to all sub groups of the older population. Exercise can improve strength, balance and flexibility, and improve bone density, thus helping reduce falls. It can lower the risk of heart disease and stroke, reduce blood pressure, obesity and incontinence, and levels of depression

Other ‘Free Swimming’ links:

http://www.wales.gov.uk/subiculture/content/swim/index-e.htm

http://www.bridgend.gov.uk