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Swimming and other water-related activities are excellent ways to get the physical activity needed for a healthy life, and millions of people enjoy oceans, lakes, rivers, pools, and spas each year. However, it is important to be aware of ways to prevent water-related adverse health events, such as sunburn and other injuries, drowning, and recreational water illnesses (RWIs). CDC's Healthy Swimming program provides information for the public and health professionals (for example, outbreak response toolkits and the Model Aquatic Health Code) on a variety of subjects.

Healthy Swimming & Recreational Water Topics

Pools & Hot Tubs

Model Aquatic Health Code, Design, Operation, Disinfection...

Recreational Water Illness

RWI Basics, Education & Prevention Materials, State Resources...

Oceans, Lakes, & Rivers

Beach Monitoring, Water Quality Indicators...

Injury & Skin Cancer

Drowning, Boating, Sun Protection...

Healthy Swimming Fast Facts

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Health Benefits of Water-Based Exercise

Photo of swimmers diving into the water for a race

Swimming is the fourth most popular sports activity in the United States and a good way to get regular aerobic physical activity. Just two and a half hours per week of aerobic physical activity, such as swimming, bicycling, or running can decrease the risk of chronic illnesses. This can also lead to improved health for people with diabetes and heart disease.

Swimmers have about half the risk of death compared with inactive people. People report enjoying water-based exercise more than exercising on land. They can also exercise longer in water than on land without increased effort or joint or muscle pain.

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Click here to go to the Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC)

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