Use of Szczecin‘a Swimming Pools for the Aqua Fitness Activity in 2012 and 2019

Abstract

The available literature analysed the recommendations and optimal conditions for conducting aqua fitness classes.It was decided to check whether these guidelines are related to the practical use of facilities for conducting this type of recreational activities. The research problem was undertaken to assess the use of local swimming pools for recreational aqua fitness classes and changes in their use in 2012 and 2019. Methods. The study covered all functioning swimming pools within the city of Szczecin, in 2012 (n = 17) and 2019 (n = 16). In order to collect the necessary data, the document analysis technique (load lists of individual facilities and lists of places where aqua fitness classes were conducted by individual entities) and the interview technique (with persons working in the aforementioned facilities, possessing the necessary information, and with the managers of individual businesses that offered aqua fitness classes in Szczecin's swimming pools) were used. Results. Both in 2012 and 2019, the use of Szczecin's swimming pools for recreational aqua fitness was considered satisfactory. Changes in the use of Szczecin's swimming pools for the purposes of recreational aqua fitness took place over the course of several years with two swimming pools being discontinued (due to facility characteristics and conditions -temperature and water depth) and one new, private facility being opened. The number of businesses offering recreational aqua fitness services has not changed. Recreational aqua fitness classes were conducted both at typically recreational, intimate facilities located at hotels, as well as at medium and large facilities, typically sports ones. Conclusions. The conditions, modernity of the facility and location were conducive to increased participation and utilisation of the Szczecin swimming pool base for the purposes of aqua fitness classes.