It’s never too early to start

Dr Hussain Al-Zubaidi reveals how early positive experiences with movement and outdoor environments can shape habits that last a lifetime

This month in my role as health and wellbeing partnerships lead at Parkrun UK we have been working to improve accessibility for children to open spaces by expanding opportunities for participation in Junior Parkrun.

It was fantastic to see Junior Parkrun recently featured on BBC Newsround, helping to showcase how movement, community and the outdoors can shape healthier childhoods. It is about far more than physical activity. Children build confidence, encourage one another, form friendships and develop a sense of belonging. For many, it becomes a gateway into a more active life discovering other sports, including cycling, running and, of course, swimming. Early positive experiences with movement and outdoor environments can shape habits that last a lifetime.

Reclaiming blue space in the city

Urban swimming is part of a wider movement that is transforming city “blue spaces”: rivers, canals and docks from overlooked infrastructure into vibrant swimming communities. There is growing evidence that time spent in and around water is associated with improvements in mental wellbeing, reduced stress and greater overall physical activity. Even a brief dip can offer a powerful reset after a busy urban day.

Swimming safely in the city

Most serious incidents in open water occur when conditions are underestimated; water, currents and visibility can all change rapidly. Some things to consider:

• Water quality: Always check local updates before swimming. Heavy rainfall can increase the risk of sewer overflows and poorer water quality.
• Hidden hazards: Urban waters can conceal debris such as bottles, metal or discarded objects. Enter slowly and remain aware of your surroundings.
• Boat traffic: Stay highly visible and avoid swimming in areas used by boats or where swimming is not advised.
• Safety in numbers: Swim with others whenever possible.

Swimmerbolts

Swimmerbolts is a group of swimmers who support each other in urban swimming in London. It was founded by Prabina Talary, who took up open water swimming four years ago and loved it. Being in nature helped Prabina to relax into the flow of the swim. Her friends soon joined her and the Swimmerbolts community was born. It brings together people of different abilities who encourage one another in their swimming goals.

Prabina said that it has really helped her and other members to have a positive mindset, knowing they can lift each other towards more active and healthier lives, they really feel the release of those feel good hormones after each session, making sure to celebrate each swim! Follow @swimmerboltsuk on Instagram.

Tip of the month: If open water still feels a little daunting, consider starting with a lido. These outdoor pools offer the best of both worlds: fresh air and open skies, but within a controlled environment where water quality is monitored and lifeguards are present. For many swimmers, a lido becomes the perfect stepping stone between the pool and open water.