Swimming and bathing
Swimming is one of the most popular sporting activities in the world. Swimming is not only an ideal sport to train strength and endurance in a way that is easy on the joints, but it is also fun and a wonderful way to cool down and relieve stress. As a sport, swimming is possible in almost all waters, from small lakes to the sea. Open water swimming has gained enormous popularity in recent years. Explore lakes, oceans, outdoor and indoor pools with Outdooractive!
The best regions
Off into the cool water
Swimming is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. It is an excellent way to build muscle, increase stamina and protect joints at the same time. Swimming is therefore also a great activity for people with osteoarthritis and other pre-existing joint conditions.
Swimming exercises many muscles in the body, especially the arms, shoulders, chest, abdominal muscles, hips and legs. It increases endurance and fitness, improves cardiovascular health and promotes flexibility. The big plus: swimming is easy on the joints, because in the water the load from your own body weight is lower. Swimming is also a great way to relieve stress and calm the mind.
The more adventurous may also dare to swim in sub-zero temperatures. Ice swimming has a particularly health-promoting effect, but requires good preparation and is not suitable for everyone. In this interview with Paul Bieber, a passionate ice swimmer, you can find out what you need to bear in mind and what makes ice swimming so fascinating.
Open water swimming
When the temperatures get warmer, you can head for the lakes and seas in summer for swimming and bathing. In Germany, there are numerous lakes all over the country that offer excellent conditions. The most popular regions include, for example, the Bodensee, the Mecklenburg Lake District and the Fränkische Seenland. You can find more extensive beaches on the North and Baltic Sea coast.
Scandinavia, with its numerous lakes and fjords, also offers you great opportunities for swimming, such as in the province of Geilo north of Oslo.
Other Seen, Strände and lakes worldwide with information on infrastructure, water quality etc. can be found on our map
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Swimming fun all year round in outdoor pools, indoor pools and wellness centres
Open-air pools offer you a choice of different pools for swimmers, non-swimmers and paddling pools for children in summer. You will also find catering facilities here.
If you don't want to miss out on swimming in winter, indoor pools invite you to swim in special pools for swimmers. Wellness centre with adjoining sauna area provide the necessary relaxation after swimming. For families, adventure pools with slides, diving pools and wave pools are the right choice.
Training and safety - what you need to bear in mind
You should always warm up before swimming. A few stretches for the muscles and a few minutes in shallow water can help prepare the body for the activity ahead. Also, make sure you swim in a safe environment. Especially in large waters and by the sea, you should be aware of the weather and wind! When swimming in open water, it is recommended that you always wear a buoyancy aid or life jacket.
When swimming a long distance for the first time, it is important to increase slowly and not overdo it. Regular exercise is the best way to prepare for long swims. And: A swimming course is not only worthwhile for children! With the right technique, you can swim faster and save energy at the same time.
Swimming and bathing with Outdooractive features
Outdooractive helps you plan and prepare your next swimming trip. The map not only shows you all the waters in your vicinity, but also the current weather in the region and destinations such as bathing areas, beaches, open-air swimming pools and indoor swimming pools.
With the help of the tour search you can find swimming tours from other members of the community, but also from official partners. You can draw inspiration from them or try out the tour yourself. Of course, you can also plan your own tours and share them with others.
Offers and discounts from our partners
Benefit from exclusive offers from our partners
As a Pro and Pro+ member not only do you have access to additional features and the best maps at your disposal, but you can also benefit from exclusive offers from our partners, ensuring you are always fully equipped for the outdoors!
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