BSPF calls for increase in swimming opportunities

The British Swimming Pool Federation (BSPF) has said that there is a lack of swimming opportunities for children in the UK – despite the sport being one of the best forms of exercise and an important skill.

Managing director of the BSPF, Allen Brobyn, has spoken out following the publication of Chief Medical Officer, Sir Liam Donaldson’s, report on physical activity and health.

“Increasing levels of exercise has become a priority as we become more sedentary,” said Brobyn. “Swimming is regarded as one of the best forms of exercise as well as being an essential life skill.”

However, a recent study commissioned by the federation showed a lack of opportunities for children to learn to swim.

The survey found that while 92 per cent of parents thought swimming was a good way of increasing fitness and that fighting obesity was important, 57 per cent said their primary school-age children were not receiving lessons.

Brobyn said that swimming is the third best form of vigorous activity – after running and tennis – and has the advantage of not being a high impact form of exercise as the water supports the body’s weight. This means that the sport is equally open to all fitness levels and abilities.

The BSPF brings together the bodies representing contractors, manufacturers, distributors and retailers of swimming pools, spa, saunas, steamrooms.