Major new study on health benefits of swimming released

A new study has been released today that evidences the health and wellbeing benefits of swimming. The report shows that the unique benefits of water make it the perfect place for people of all ages to exercise, particularly those with long term health conditions.It also found evidence that swimmers live longer, regular swimming helps older people stay mentally and physically fit, and participation in swimming lessons can help children to develop quicker.

Swim England commissioned the independent report and will use the findings to raise awareness within the health profession that swimming is a safe and viable option to signpost patients.

The report’s remit was developed by the Swimming and Health Commission under the Chairmanship of Professor Ian Cumming, Chief Executive, Health Education England and Level 3 Swimming Coach.

Professor Cumming said:

The Swimming and Health Commission was established by Swim England to explore the evidence base for the health benefits of swimming. The resulting academic report is a ground-breaking collection of papers that identify striking and robust evidence for the significant improvements in health and quality of life that swimming produces.

Swim England is the first sport governing body to support such an in-depth investigation of its relationship with health and wellbeing and I would like to applaud them for their foresight and for producing a piece of work that I am sure will become a reference document for many years to come.