The ELLE Beauty team have rediscovered their love of swimming recently. As a low impact method of exercise its ideal not only for burning calories and toning muscle but also for its all round health benefits. Water creates more resistance in training compared to air which means more calories are burned in the effort to propel through water. Muscles are toned and firmed, particularly arms and legs, as staying afloat requires them to be in constant motion. The cardiovascular benefits of swimming are great, too, as lungs and the heart become strengthened which can lower blood pressure and improve circulation.
Londons top 3 places to swim:
The rooftop pool at The Berkeley Hotel in London boasts panoramic views of Hyde Park and Knightsbridge and a retractable roof perfect for soaking up some summer sun while you swim.
Tooting Bec Lido is a beautiful freshwater outdoor pool lined with greenery and home to some funky coloured changing hut doors. Perfect for a refreshing burst of exercise.
The Third Space located in Soho and Marylebone offers a more plush pool, ideal for both a relaxing dip after work or a strenuous workout with a specialist swimming coach.
Caring for your skin and hair before and after swimming is essential, as chlorine and salt water cause dryness. Shielding Lotion, £9.99 for 240ml, by Gloves in a Bottle creates a moisturising barrier on your skin which keeps chlorine and salt water from disturbing your skins natural balance. Marine Clean Detox Shampoo, £20.00 for 206ml, and Beachcomber Leave-In Conditioner, £20.00 for 120ml, by Frederic Fekkai are great as they defend hair against chlorine, salt water, sun and humidity which can strip natural oils and leave hair dry and frizzy.
