GMTV’s Dr Hilary Jones, who has taken part in the Great North Swim for the last two years, is a firm advocate of the benefits of swimming and says:
”Swimming is an excellent form of exercise and all round therapy for body and soul.
”It exercises all the major muscle groups including the shoulders, neck, back, arms, legs and abdomen. Just look at the physiques of our Olympic swimmers – you know it has to be good for you! More importantly, the heart and lungs get a workout too – and it is a great way to burn calories.
”Swimming is a wonderfully social activity. Great for all ages, anyone able-bodied or otherwise can enjoy it and just learning to swim could one day even save your life.“