Summertime is bathing time

Result

As temperatures rise, so does the interest of German citizens in cool refreshment - in the form of a swimming trip. On average, 29 per cent of the population go swimming at least once a month, although there are noticeable differences between the generations. While almost one in two under 30-year-olds regularly enjoy swimming in lakes, at the seaside and in outdoor, indoor or adventure pools, only around one in six over 65-year-olds indulge in this leisure activity.

Reasons

There are various reasons why many people enjoy swimming so much. For many, it is a favourite leisure activity that promises relaxation and recreation. The cool water - especially on hot summer days - offers welcome refreshment and helps to relieve the stress of everyday life. Swimming also offers the opportunity to be active and do something for your own health. The connection to nature - be it lakes, rivers or the sea - also encourages many people to go for a swim.

The social element also plays an important role for the under-30s. The activity often takes place with friends and offers an opportunity to have fun together, make new friends, deepen existing relationships or simply socialise in a relaxed environment.

Forecast

The interest in swimming in lakes, the sea or swimming pools will continue in the future, as this activity offers a wide range of benefits: From relaxation and recreation to physical activity and socialising. However, the prerequisite for this is the ability to swim. In the last ten years, the proportion of primary school children who cannot swim has doubled from ten to 20 per cent. In the same period, the total number of non-swimmers in Germany has also continued to rise. This trend needs to be counteracted and countered with an improved and more comprehensive programme. In future, this will require cities and municipalities with sufficient swimming pool facilities, schools that reliably teach swimming, parents who motivate, support and accompany their children to learn to swim, and swimming pools themselves, which will secure their customers of tomorrow by offering a comprehensive and affordable range of swimming lessons.