Winter swimming is especially important in climates like Canberra’s. Photos: Belgravia Leisure Centre.
Swimming may not be the first sport you think of in winter — but perhaps it should be.
Canberra swim instructors have made a compelling case for all ages to embrace the pool during the colder months, and they’ve made it hard to argue.
Jayd Williams, aquatic services manager at Gungahlin Leisure Centre, says maintaining winter swimming is especially critical in a climate like Canberra’s.
“Unlike more temperate climates, we’re not talking about a brief two-month break,” Jayd points out.
“If you stop swimming when the temperature drops, you’re basically looking at a stretch from March to October.”
Over a hiatus that long, students inevitably backslide.
“Even older kids with established muscle memory lose momentum and forget what they’ve been taught,” Jayd explains.
“You also lose endurance. Every spring, when families return, we see kids who are no longer at the level they left off at. More advanced swimmers who used to power through 30 to 45 continuous minutes simply can’t do it anymore.”
In many ways, winter is prime time for swimming lessons. Quieter pools mean smaller class sizes, allowing coaches to offer more individualised attention.
Yet, the biggest psychological barrier for families isn’t the lesson itself — it’s what comes after.
Fortunately, the dreaded, shivering sprint from the pool to the car is entirely avoidable.
And as for the old wives’ tale that stepping outside with wet hair will cause illness, well, it’s a furphy.
“It’s a total myth that cold weather or wet hair causes sickness,” Jayd says.
“But if the walk to the car seems daunting, it’s just about taking the right measures. Wear a rubber cap so your hair stays dry, have a warm shower, towel off and dress appropriately for the elements.”
Consistent practice is critical if you don’t want your child to backslide in their skill level.
Jayd notes that you can spot the seasoned families a mile away.
“Their kids leave in trackpants, hoodies and Ugg boots,” she says.
“We even email families who attend evening sessions, suggesting they pack pyjamas. Kids can shower here, change into their PJs, throw on a coat and go straight home for dinner and bed.”
Consistency through winter also ensures kids can dive into the summer school carnival season with confidence.
“There’s a saying that winter swimmers are summer winners, and that’s absolutely true,” Jayd says. “First term is when a lot of school swim carnivals take place.”
With the exception of Dickson Pool, which closes for the winter season, all Belgravia Leisure Centre facilities are fully heated — including the newly acquired Erindale Leisure Centre pool.
Classes run seven days a week for everyone from six-month-old infants to adults. Assessments take place each term, giving families regular opportunities to map and celebrate progress — a major motivator, according to Jayd.
“When a child graduates, they receive a medal and their picture goes up on our wall for the month,” she says.
“I guarantee those smiles always make the winter effort worthwhile.”
For more information on swim classes near you, visit Belgravia Leisure Centres.
