Free swimming for the over 60s - your questions answered

What happens after 31 July 2010?

The central government scheme was originally granted for two years, however following a recent announcement the scheme will now only be funded until 31 July 2010.

Card holders can continue to swim for free until this date. We will continue to honor the Over 60s Free Swimming Leisure Card from 1 August 2010 to 31 July 2011. Members with an Over 60s Leisure Card will be able to continue to use their existing Leisure Card for all activities and discounts but will also be required to pay the concessionary swim prices.

New applications will not longer be accepted.

Concessionary swim prices

Teddington Pools & Fitness Centre

• £2.10 general swim weekdays
• £3.30 general swim weekends
• £6.30 per session in the Hydrotherapy Pool

Pools on the Park, Richmond

• £1.65 general swim times

Over 60s free swimming will not be available at Hampton Pool after 31 July 2010.

Where and when can I swim for free (up to 31 July 2010)?

• Teddington Pools & Fitness Centre - at all general swim times
• Pools on the Park - at all general swim times
• Hampton Pool - Monday 6.00am to 12noon, Wednesday 10.00am to 12noon and Friday, 10.00am to 12noon and 6.00 to 9.00pm.

What if I forget my card?

If you forget your card you will have to pay the normal admission charge.

What if I have lost my card?

You will need to buy a new card. There is a cost of £2.50 for all replacement cards.

What are the benefits of swimming?

• 30 minutes of steady-paced lane swimming burns over 200 calories – well over 400 in an hour.
• Any swimming that makes you breathe more heavily counts as ‘moderate’ activity. Even treading water takes effort, so you are working most of the time you’re in the pool.
• The pressure and resistance of the water makes your body work that little bit harder. 30 minutes of activity in the water is worth 45 minutes of the same activity on land.
• The water takes your weight, so swimming can be great for those who want low impact exercise, especially for people who have mobility problems or want to protect their joints.
• Swimming works your whole body for all over toning!
• Swimming is great for your heart. Because you are using your whole body your heart has to pump blood hard to your arms and legs, helping circulation too.
• It is also great for your lungs – length swimming in particular forces you to breathe in a deep and rhythmic way which gives your lungs a boost.
• Being in water can have great psychological benefits too – the pool can ‘take you away from it all’ and the feeling of being in water can be refreshing, relaxing, and liberating as the water takes your weight.

Can I attend aquafit or swimming lessons for free?

No. Your card is only valid for general swimming and you will have to pay for any instructor led classes, sessions or courses.

More information

For more information please contact the Leisure Card Office on 020 8831 6106.