• By: Keith Whittier

Splash into Summer!

Jump in the pool this summer for some fun, family-friendly exercise!

Swimming is a great sport everyone can enjoy, regardless of age or ability. It is a cost-effective activity that almost always provides a good time—plus, it’s good for you!

IMG_0704The health benefits of swimming include building immunity against disease, strengthening the heart, increased muscle memory, heightened circulation and decreased chances of obesity. Water play also supports 90 per cent of the body’s weight; providing a safer form of exercise for individuals with physical injuries or disabilities.

The City of Ottawa’s objectives support accessibility for heart healthy and health-oriented initiatives. Serving residents from east to west, municipal leisure programs offer a convenient range of scheduling for both indoor and outdoor swimming pool locations.

Below is a list of where you can get your splash on:

Ottawa East indoor splash pad locations include Bob MacQuarrie, Brewer, Canterbury, Champagne, Lowertown, Ray Friel, St. Laurent, Sawmill Creek and the Wave pool on Ogilvie Road.

Indoor Ottawa West splash pad locations include Dovercourt, Goulbourn, Jack Purcell, Minto recreation, Walter Baker Sports Centre, Nepean Sportsplex, Pinecrest, Plant Recreation Centre, Richcraft Recreation Centre and the Kanata Wave Pool.

Ottawa East outdoor swimming activities can be found at Bearbrook on Innes and Genest on Ste-Cecile.

Outdoor Ottawa West swimming aIMG_0707ctivities can be found at Beaverbrook, Corkstown, Crestview, Entrance, General Burns, Glen Cairn and Katimavik in Kanata.

Make sure to check out the City of Ottawa’s public swim schedule to find a time and place for you!

Municipally funded leisure water sports consist of youth and adult-only lap swimming, daily family swim for adults and children, casual public all-age swim, wave activated swim, aged 5 and under playtime preschool swim, women only family swim (boys under age 6), 50+ adult lap swim, aged 50+ vitality social exercise swim and the teen swim for youth aged 13-19.

Subject to swim type and participant age, admission prices range from $1.90—$7.75 per person. Swimming admission is free of charge for residents with long-term disabilities. Memberships are also available for all City of Ottawa public swimming pool locations.

If you are looking for a fun-filled, health oriented physical activity…Jump in!