Those looking for fun this half-term are being encouraged to try out a range of swimming activities taking place in pools across the county.
Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre is launching its new pool programme which will have adults making waves with two new classes – aqua cycle and aqua jump.
Putting the traditional spinning class in the water, aqua cycle sees state-of-the-art bikes submerged while users pedal against the resistance of the water.
While the workout benefits cardiovascular health in the same way as regular cycling, the buoyancy of the water also reduces impact on muscles and joints.
Aqua jump classes are filled with fun and high-energy, using underwater trampolines to improve strength, conditioning and core stability.
To keep the children entertained over the holiday, eight pools are already running a variety of sessions including ‘Ready, Sett, Splash’, perfect for children and parents looking to spend more quality time together.
Children will be able to play and invent their own games, as well as meeting Brock the Badger and his friends who are learning to love the water at the same time.
Some pools will also be taken over by a giant inflatable obstacle course, perfect for keeping older children entertained, while aquafun sessions will see new equipment such as rafts, floats and water toys help people develop their aquatics skills.
The new sessions are being introduced to some of the county’s pools thanks to a £1.5 million investment from Durham County Council, alongside £540,972 funding from Sport England and also include activities suitable for children and young people.
Cllr Ossie Johnson, Cabinet member for tourism, culture, leisure and rural issues, said: “Our pool activities, such as aqua cycle and aqua jump, are a great way to have fun while keeping active, while our family sessions are perfect for those wanting to spend more time together this half-term.
“We know swimming is very popular in our county and we would encourage people to come and try something new.”
As family sessions don’t need to be booked, parents and children are free to turn up and dive straight into the fun.
To celebrate the launch of the new pool programme at Newton Aycliffe, anyone who signs up for a swim membership between Monday 23 and Thursday 30 October will receive a 25 per cent discount.
For much information visit http://www.durham.gov.uk/swimming