Health benefits of swimming

  • Linked to better cognitive function
  • Lower risk of type 2 diabetes
  • Lower risk of high blood pressure
  • Decrease the risk of chronic illnesses
  • Reduces joint inflammation
  • Improves memory function
  • Helps combat obesity
  • Improves coordination, flexibility, balance and posture
  • Builds endurance, muscle strength, and cardiovascular fitness
  • Slows down aging
  • Provides all-over body workout
  • Improves oxygen and blood flow to the brain
  • Improves overall social wellbeing
  • Healthy lungs
  • Relaxed mind
  • Lower risk of stroke
  • Good for asthma
  • Healthy weight
Selecting pool tiles Pretoria sample
swimming pool plaster

General tip: Warm up and stretch your muscles before swimming.

fact: swimming is one of the best forms of exercise.

Swimming strokes

4 main swimming strokes

Some exciting facts about swimming pools

Here are some exciting facts about swimming pools:

  1. Ancient Origins: The concept of swimming pools dates back thousands of years. The first known swimming pool, called the “Great Bath,” was built in the ancient city of Mohenjo-daro, located in present-day Pakistan, around 2600 BCE. It was a massive pool constructed with bricks and covered in a waterproof material.

  2. Largest Swimming Pool: The largest swimming pool in the world is located at the San Alfonso del Mar resort in Algarrobo, Chile. It stretches over a staggering 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) in length and covers an area of 8 hectares (20 acres). Its maximum depth is 35 meters (115 feet), making it equivalent to a 14-story building.

  3. Record-Breaking Pool Lengths: Prior to the San Alfonso del Mar pool, the largest pool was the Orthlieb Pool in Casablanca, Morocco. It held the Guinness World Record for the longest pool, measuring 480 meters (1,575 feet). Additionally, the Olympic-sized swimming pool, used in the Summer Games, measures 50 meters (164 feet) in length.

  4. Saltwater vs. Chlorinated Pools: Swimming pools can be either saltwater or chlorinated. Saltwater pools use a salt chlorinator to convert salt into chlorine, resulting in a milder and more natural swimming experience. Chlorinated pools rely on the addition of chlorine chemicals to sanitize the water. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages.

  5. Diving Depth: The deepest swimming pool in the world is Y-40, located in Montegrotto Terme, Italy. It has a depth of 42 meters (138 feet), which is equivalent to a 14-story building. It was designed specifically for freediving and scuba diving training.

  6. Energy-Efficient Pools: Some modern swimming pools utilize advanced technologies to minimize energy consumption. These features can include solar heating systems, energy-efficient pumps and filters, LED lighting, and pool covers that help retain heat.

  7. Fastest Swim: The current world record for the fastest 50-meter freestyle swim is held by César Cielo, a Brazilian swimmer. He achieved this feat in a mere 20.91 seconds during the 2009 World Championships in Rome. Imagine swimming the length of an Olympic-sized pool in less than 21 seconds!

  8. Swimming Pool on Wheels: The world’s first mobile swimming pool, known as the “MovingPool,” was created by artist Alfredo Barsuglia. It is a minimalist pool that can be transported to different locations. However, it’s not a recreational pool. It requires a reservation, and the GPS coordinates to find it are only provided to a select few.

  9. Floating Swimming Pools: Some cities, like Berlin in Germany and Stockholm in Sweden, have innovative floating swimming pools. These pools are constructed on rivers, using pontoons or platforms to keep them afloat. They provide a unique swimming experience with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  10. Water Conservation: Swimming pools can be designed with water conservation in mind. Features like rainwater harvesting systems, efficient filtration methods, and pool covers can help reduce water usage. Additionally, saltwater pools require fewer water changes compared to traditional chlorinated pools.

These facts showcase the diversity and fascinating aspects of swimming pools, from historical significance to modern innovations. Whether it’s for leisure, competition, or artistic expression, swimming pools continue to captivate people around the world.