As part of the nationwide swim4life campaign to encourage people to go swimming more often, anyone aged 60 years or over can swim for free during public sessions at Aquaterra's pools from April 2009 to March 2011.

Swimming is good for you!

Regular swimming improves endurance, muscular strength, posture, flexibility and the fitness of your heart and lungs. It is also a good activity for weight loss. Swimming uses all key muscle groups, giving exercise to your whole body.

Swimming releases stress and makes you feel good

For many, swimming provides an activity that helps them unwind, de-stress and relax. The rhythm of your stroke, the floating sensation and the weightlessness of the water can be very meditative and relaxing. Having a gentle swim after another form of exercise is a perfect way to finish your exercise routine.

Water offers extra support

The support of the water greatly reduces stress on joints such as knees and ankles. This makes swimming and aqua aerobics ideal activities for people recovering from injury, people with conditions such as back pain or arthritis, and those carrying a bit of excess weight!

Swimming is an invaluable life skill

It is essential to be able to swim well to take part in a wide range of water sports including snorkelling and sailing. A holiday in the sun is enhanced by swimming in the great outdoors (or the hotel pool!) and knowing how to swim can save your life at any age.

Swimming is fun

Swimming is the ideal activity for all the family to enjoy together from babies to grandparents and everyone in between! Going swimming is also a good way to meet new people and make friends.

More information on free swimming in Bath & North East Somerset and around

More information on free swimming in Islington and around