Swimming when you’re living with diabetes
Here’s what to keep in mind
The physical benefits of swimming regularly can make it a great exercise for people living with diabetes!
Going for a swim can give you more energy, help you sleep better, strengthen your muscles and joints, and help to look after your blood sugar levels and cholesterol.
Swimming brings fantastic mental health benefits with it too! We know that living with diabetes can be stressful, so swimming provides an opportunity to de-stress and relax as you exercise. Feel-good hormones (endorphins) are released when we exercise as well, which can help to lift your mood.
Having diabetes shouldn’t get in the way of you staying active or getting in the pool, but there are a few things to consider:
Your diabetes kit
If you use an insulin pump, glucose monitor, or any other aids, you’ll need to check how water-resistant they are. Each model will be different, so it’s best to get advice from your GP or the manufacturer of the devices.
Thinking about open water swimming?
If you’re wanting to get out of the pool and into the sea, you’ll need to consider the temperature of the water. Open water swimming is a chilly experience, and very cold water can make you more likely to have hypos (low blood sugar)! Make sure you wear appropriate footwear too to protect your feet from sharp objects and the cold temperature of the water.
Testing your blood sugar levels
If you normally check your blood sugar levels, it’s a good idea to keep a record of them before and after you go for a swim. This will help you get a better understanding of how swimming affects your blood sugar levels! Keep in mind that some days you might do the same swim, yet your blood sugar levels may be different to what you expect.
Fuelling your swim
Including carbohydrates within a healthy, balanced diet will ensure our bodies are fuelled for a swim. When it comes to managing diabetes, some people may need to eat before their swim to help manage blood sugar levels, and during if it’s an intense session. If you’re at risk of hypos, keep your treatments poolside and inform one of our lifeguards that you’re diabetic.
If you’re new to our pools or haven’t swum in a while, our Just Swim sessions could be a great place to start. They let you do exactly what the name suggests – just swim! These are an ideal option for swimming at your own pace, enjoying your time in the water, or even socialising with other swimmers.
Lane swimming is another one of our swimming sessions, perfect for those who want to work on their fitness or improve their stamina in the water. When you get to the pool, expect it to be divided into individual lanes – slow, medium, and fast. If you’re unsure of your speed in the water, start in the slow lane, you can always move up if you want to pick up the pace!
Ready to give it a go? Take a look at the swimming timetables at your nearest pool below.
Sources: Diabetes and swimming (Swim England) | Swimming when you have diabetes (Diabetes UK)