Older people in the district have proved their commitment to
fitness by taking to the water, thanks to a nationally-backed free
swim scheme.
The over 60 free swim scheme is being funded by the department
for Culture, Media and Sport and is being supported by Suffolk
Coastal District Council and DC Leisure.
“Since the scheme began over 23,000 free swims have been issued
across the district at pools in Felixstowe, Leiston and
Woodbridge.
“It is great to see so many of our older adults making a splash
and heading to our pools to enjoy themselves and keep fit,” said
Cllr Mary Neale, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Countryside.
Thanks to Suffolk Coastal and DC Leisure offering the free swim
scheme even more people are able to make use of the fantastic
leisure facilities in the district. Regular early bird swimmers and
those enjoying a return to the water are now taking part without
spending a penny.
Anyone over the age of 60 is able to apply for their free swim
card so they can get back in to the habit of exercising. Those that
have not yet registered for their free swim card can do so at any
of the district’s pools or by calling 01394 670411 and speaking
with a member of the leisure centre staff.
“Swimming is the perfect activity for anyone wanting to get back
in to exercise after a break or after recovering from an injury or
illness. It is ideal for older members of our community as it works
almost every muscle in the body, improves cardiovascular fitness
and is a low impact activity, making it gentle on the joints.
“I would encourage any of our older adults in the community
thinking about catching the swimming bug to dig out their trunks
and costumes and give it a go,” added Cllr Neale.
Unfortunately the Government grant Suffolk Coastal received was
insufficient to cover free swimming for under 16’s too however,
they are still able to swim at a discounted rate by purchasing a
Coastal Card from any of the DC Leisure centres in the district or
by downloading an application from
www.suffolkcoastal.gov.uk/yourfreetime/leisure/coastalcard
“As the scheme has shown there are a great number of older
people that are passionate about swimming and I hope this number
continues to grow with even more enjoying the benefits of a
healthier lifestyle at no financial cost,” added Cllr Neale.
For more information about the free swim offer or how to apply
for a Coastal Card residents should contact DC Leisure on 01394
670411.