Swimming

Swimming is a great sport, it not only supports your physical health, but also your mental health.

Competitive swimming is one of the most popular sports in the Olympics. It brings opportunities like travelling for competitions and swim coaching.

It is also a fun way to keep in shape and get moving!

Get Involved: Free swimming for young people aged 16 and under in Oxford.

Getting Started

There are a range of leisure centers and swimming pools across Oxfordshire. Find your local swimming pools on your district council website:

1. West Oxfordshire
2. South Oxfordshire
3. Vale of White Horse District (South West)
4. Oxford
5. Cherwell district

The video below shows how swimming in a pool can have a positive impact on mental wellbeing.

Why I swim competitively

Swimming competitively requires a lot of hard work and dedication. It has given me a range of skills and opportunities throughout my life. Some of these include, time management, organization, coordination, confidence and teamwork. All these skills have helped me become a better person and more confident in myself. - Illizane, 15

Did you know: that the colour blue is often thought of as calming? It reminds us of the natural world such as the sea and sky. 

Your Questions answered:

• I don't know how to swim. Look out for lessons in your local swimming pool or book a class.
• None of my friends do it. Swimming is a sport filled with friendly and welcoming people, it is a perfect opportunity to make new friends and meet new people.
• What if I look silly? Swimming is a great sport because there is no ‘right’ way to look while swimming. You will also gain more confidence as you swim more, which will boost your self-esteem.

Learn how to swim

Learning to swim is always worthwhile. It stops you panicking and gives you skills to keep yourself safe. It can be done at any age and is not a difficult task if you have the right support.

Crucial: Whether you are swimming or walking beside rivers or canals, water safety is vital. Learning to swim helps you keep safer if you end up in the water. Find out more about river safety.

Page written by Work Experience Student, Illizane