Virgin Active launched its latest training innovation - SWIM. Developed by Olympic Gold medalist Ryk Neethling and endorsed by Commonwealth Games and world champion Chad le Clos, SWIM is a coaching programme designed for just about every one - young, old, fit or unfit.
Ceri Hannan, Head of Programme Development and Innovations, Virgin Active, says, "Swimming is a great way to work out as it is non-impact. This makes it ideal for everyone, including pregnant women, older people, even athletes wanting to cross-train. Yet few know how to swim properly for their unique needs so we joined forces with two of the most experienced swimmers in South Africa and developed SWIM."
Media were invited to the launch and were informed of the nature of the campaign in an interactive environment - straight from the swimming pool at Virgin Active, Greenpoint. Here media were given the opportunity to watch Chad Le Clos in action and were educated on the ins and outs of the mechanics of the new SWIM initiative. Media were presented with goodie boxes containing a Virgin Active towel, a silicon swimming cap, a stopwatch, Kauai vouchers and SWIM programme material.
"My best advice to those swimmers starting out is to take it easy: Focus on technique and build a good base to work from. Keep it up and the rest will follow - just like Ryk and me. Even Olympic champions had to start somewhere!" says Chad. Chad helped Ryk test the SWIM techniques ensuring users were equipped with all the basics and are comfortable in the water.
Waterproof copies of the SWIM programme will be available for club members at all pool sides or can be downloaded from www.virginactive.co.za. It can be used independently, or with the added guidance of a swim coach. Users must be able to swim first before using the programme.
"Members who'd like to learn to swim can book lessons with our Swim Coaches - they offer one-on-one lessons to adults as well as toddlers and babies. Virgin Active Swim Coaches also offer lessons on stroke correction and improving technique. For more information on Swim Coaching please ask at any Virgin Active Club," concludes Hannan.
SWIM will be launched across the country's clubs throughout May. For more information about SWIM and swimming coaches at the Virgin Active clubs, visit www.virginactive.co.za or call 0860 200 911.
