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You could almost be in the Mediterranean, Virgin Active swimming pools are that good. The water’s crystal clear, ocean blue and gently laps around your toes. We even have toys.
Far from the maddening crowds, our pools are perfect for a relaxing dip after a busy day, as a way of
kick-starting your engine or for splashing around with the family.
Stay healthy and have fun
Swimming is a great way to stay healthy and we have classes and courses for everyone, from smiley three-month old water babies through to ‘go for it’ teens. Our one-to-one lessons are excellent value for all ages and abilities. And for grown ups who still haven’t dipped their toe in the water, our highly trained swim teachers are patient, discrete and motivating. Fear not, they’ll be in the pool to keep you safe.
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The National Plan for Teaching Swimming
All our swim teachers are Amateur Swimming Association qualified and follow The National Plan for Teaching Swimming, approved by the ASA - the national governing body. It means our lessons are top notch and include the techie bits about how to get your arms, legs and breathing right, as well as building that all-important confidence. We also have very cool badges and even hold galas for budding Olympians.
Get in the swim with Virgin Active.
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Water babies
Future proof your kids from just 3 months old. We can teach babies almost from the moment they pop into the world. After their final immunisations, your bundle of joy can join our parent and baby, parent and toddler or duckling classes and get quacking.
Kids’ lessons
We have regular lessons in term time for kids of all ages to get hooked on swimming as exercise or simply fun and enjoy some serious splashing around during the holidays.
"My daughters have both improved massively at group lessons. Lara, 6, can now swim over 200 metres and do butterfly. Erin, 4, can swim 25 metres and is really good at backstroke. They’re also doing snorkeling classes. They learn how to put the masks on, to breathe, go down for objects and develop their fin kick. It’s a crash course, ready for when we go snorkeling on holiday with the turtles." Lesley Clarke, Virgin Active member.
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Rookie lifeguards
Imagine knowing how to save a life from the age of 9. If your kid can swim 50 metres and is aged between 9 and 15, they can be a rookie lifeguard. There’s a lot of cool Baywatch stuff as well as First Aid, how to keep safe on the beach, in the pool or just messing about with friends.
“Jarod is 8 and loves being a Rookie Lifeguard. I remember doing lifesaving as a kid and it was boring but this is different. The course leader is great and the kids never want to leave the class.” Michelle Donohoe, Virgin Active member.
Adults only
It takes courage to make that first step towards conquering your fear. But once you’ve learned to swim (and you will, honestly) you’ll feel fabulous. Our swim teachers are sympathetic, experienced and understanding. They’ll be with you all the way. Take the plunge and book that lesson today. It’s one of the best investments you’ll ever make.
"I was frightened during school swimming lessons, so I never learned. Then I developed joint problems and decided to give swimming a go. I chose Virgin Active because you could join for just three months and the pool is one depth. My swim teacher has endless enthusiasm, patience and encouragement. Having someone in the water is absolutely vital because you feel safer. It was a real achievement getting my 25 metre badge and since then I’ve notched up over ten miles in the pool. I can do 17 lengths in a session, have lost weight, toned up, feel fitter and it’s also boosted my confidence. To celebrate my 50th birthday I swam in the sea for the first time in Lanzarote! I was so proud." Kath Smith. Virgin Active member.
One-to-one lessons
A little attention goes a long way. Our one-to-one lessons are available for all ages and we take things really steady, there’s no rush, you progress at your own pace. Buddy up to spread the cost and have a laugh.
"I wanted to breathe properly in front crawl especially as my children had already learned. I got together with another girl every week for half an hour’s lesson. Now I can swim a length breathing right. And run a lot further without gasping - that’s a bonus I wasn’t expecting." Pam Wright, Virgin Active member.
Synchro swim
Synchronised swimming is all set for the 2012 Olympics and now it’s at Virgin Active. Practice your high kicks and back flips wearing as much gelatine (to make the water run off your hair) and waterproof mascara or guyliner as you like. It’s a great way of keeping fit and that groovy nose clip is really rather retro. All together now.
Water Polo
Swim, throw and score as you splash and dash your way to glory. Water polo is said to be a mix of handball and ice hockey. Prince William is a fan, it’s also the oldest continuous Olympic sport and we love it.
Snorkeling
Put on your mask, slip on your fins and enter a whole new watery world. Learn how to breathe calmly through the tube as you prepare to explore the oceans.
The Swim Squad
If you’re one of the best and can handle a bit more, it’s time to join our elite group - The Squad. You'll need to have passed your stage 7 and be ready to rise to a challenge. Oh yeah!
Galas
Our inter-club galas are brilliant swim meets with a competitive edge. It's a chance for everyone to have a swim on part. There are lots of medals, goodie bags and pats on the back up for grabs.
"The atmosphere was fantastic and it was great to see so many kids getting involved and parents supporting their children. My children loved the day and were so proud of their medals, showing everybody." Lynne Ireland, Virgin Active member.
To find out about any of our swim classes and courses just float along to your nearest Virgin Active club and get splashing.
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