Swimming can be an excellent way to stay in shape and reduce stress, and can even be quite enjoyable! Before jumping in the water however, it is crucial that you learn and follow all safety rules, especially those set forth by lifeguards who are there for your protection. Furthermore, you must ensure you’re in good health prior to diving in; one way of doing this would be getting an initial medical examination prior to starting to swim.
Swimming offers numerous health advantages, from increasing heart and respiratory fitness to decreasing blood pressure and risk reduction for chronic diseases such as stroke to weight loss and improving mood/self-esteem enhancements. What’s more, swimming is an enjoyable activity the entire family can share together.
Though swimming offers many benefits, it is important to recognize its risks. Without proper supervision or warning measures in place, injuries or drowning could occur; some risks include choking, drowning, slipping and cutting yourself with sharp objects as well as sprains and strains.
If you are uncertain how to swim, swimming lessons are available to build your confidence and teach all of the necessary skills and techniques for safe swimming. In addition, these lessons provide vital preventative measures against accidents as well as ways to respond in emergency situations.
As soon as you’re ready to dive in the pool, it is essential that you abide by its rules. These may include wearing appropriate swimwear and staying hydrated as well as following lifeguard orders. Furthermore, it is also crucial that swimmers keep a safe distance between themselves and other swimmers and never swim alone; eating or drinking are strictly prohibited within pool areas.
Hong Kong boasts 22 public swimming pools managed by Leisure and Cultural Services Department, with entrance fees set at HK$17 on weekdays and 19 on weekends for non-disabled adults (over 60) as well as students aged 3-13. Fees may be reduced for individuals with disabilities and those over 60 who require reduced admission charges; additional discounts may apply if students meet specific criteria (ie, disabled people, above 60s etc).
Tseung Kwan O Pool Complex in Sai Kung offers a 50-metre main pool, two teaching pools, diving pool, toddler’s pool and leisure pool with small slides for younger children. Unfortunately, however, Mondays are closed at this complex.
Recently, the LCSD has undertaken extensive renovations of several older swimming pools and renovated others; including reopening Kennedy Town pool complex due to West Island line construction works and moving it temporarily due to West Island line relocation works. It now comprises a main pool, diving pools and an impressive spectator stand which seats 2,500 spectators – totaling an investment of HK$800 Million in this modern facility.
Bluewave Pool Construction LLC has been licensed for six years to design and construct pools. Their services include pool remodeling and repair as well as offering free estimates to their customers; one major draw of their service.