How swimming pools improve communities
07/05/2023 | Written by Nikos Kaskaras in Blog
Swimming pools are not just recreational facilities for people to cool off in the hot summer months. They can also serve as community hubs, bringing people together and strengthening social ties. Have you ever wondered how swimming pools can benefit communities?
The history of swimming pools
Before exploring the social benefits of swimming pools, it is useful and interesting to look at their historical roots. Evidence shows that the first public swimming activities took place in ancient Egypt in 2,500 BC. The origin of this, is the discovery of paintings in a cave that depict figures that appear to be swimming. It's worth noting, however, that another discovery revealed that the first public water tank was built around 5,000 BC in ancient Pakistan. Although it was not used for public swimming, but for religious and ritual purposes, it still served the community.
The Ancient Greek Age of Swimming Pools
The first civilisation to create swimming pools for social purposes was the ancient Greeks around 1000 BC. Having reached the pinnacle of economic, social and scientific development, they used the newly built facilities in public places for social, recreational and martial training.
The swimming pool era in ancient Rome
Later, the Romans further developed the swimming pool infrastructure and Gaius Maecenas, an advisor to Augustus Caesar, built the first heated swimming pool in history. The bottom line is that from the earliest adaptation of pools, whatever form they took, there was an intense social purpose for their use.
The social benefits of public swimming pools
Swimming has come a long way in the present day. Swimming is now an Olympic sport and public swimming pools can be found all over the world. Beyond the superficial idea that swimming pools are useful for learning to swim or even for cooling off on hot days, what are the wider social benefits of swimming pools? Let's dig a little deeper.
Public pools promote physical fitness
Swimming is a low-impact form of exercise that can improve cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and endurance. Having a community pool nearby encourages people to be physically active, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Regular swimming also promotes mental health by reducing stress and anxiety and improving mood and cognitive function.
Public Swimming Pools Provide Safe and Accessible Recreation
Swimming pools provide a safe and accessible environment for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy recreational activities. They are particularly important for children, who can learn to swim and develop water safety skills that can save their lives. Community pools also provide a space for families to spend quality time together and for seniors to engage in low-impact exercise and social activities.
Public Swiming Pools Foster Social Connections
Swimming pools are natural gathering places that bring people together. They provide a shared space where community members can interact and build social connections. By regularly visiting the pool, people can meet and socialise with others who share their interests and hobbies. These connections can lead to friendships and the creation of social networks that benefit the entire community.
Public Swimming Poools Boost Property Values
A community pool is an attractive feature that can increase property values in the surrounding area. It is a desirable amenity that can differentiate one neighbourhood from another and attract potential homebuyers. Properties located near community pools may also experience less turnover, as residents are more likely to stay in an area with amenities that meet their needs and enhance their quality of life.
Community pools support local economies
Community pools can also benefit local economies by providing employment opportunities and attracting tourism. Pools require ongoing maintenance and management, creating jobs for pool attendants, lifeguards, and maintenance staff. In addition, community pools can be a draw for tourists looking for recreational activities while on holiday. This can lead to increased spending in local businesses and a boost in tourism revenue for the community.
It should be obvious by now: Swimming pools can enhance communities in many ways, from promoting physical fitness and providing safe recreation to fostering social connections and increasing property values. They are valuable community assets that bring people together and create opportunities for healthy living and social interaction. By investing in community pools, local governments, and organisations can support the well-being and prosperity of their communities.
Last but not least: Public pools reduce economic and social differences. Inside the pool, everyone is equal!
