7 July, 2026
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In this blog, Becky Cox, Business Engagement Director at ukactive Strategic Partner, Swim England, discusses the role of aquatic activity in supporting people taking weight-loss medication to be physically active.
As someone who has spent my career championing the benefits of water for health and wellbeing, I want to start by saying this: if you’re currently taking the first step on a weight-management journey, you deserve enormous credit.
Taking that step is a commitment to your future health, and at Swim England we recognise just how much determination that takes.
In the UK today, more people are starting their journey by using weight-loss medications following the national primary care rollout of GLP-1 medications, which began last year.
What I know, from years of working across aquatics and physical activity is that the most sustainable long-term weight loss change involves regular physical activity. The evidence shows weight-loss medications are most effective when paired with physical activity.
Aquatic activity offers something uniquely supportive, especially for people who may be new to exercise, returning after time away, or managing weight-related health conditions.
The buoyancy of water reduces impact on joints, making movement feel more comfortable and achievable, even if land-based exercise has felt difficult or intimidating. For many people, simply getting moving without pain is a turning point.
I often hear people say “I don’t feel like I fit in”, or “I’m worried about being judged”. The reality is that our pools are some of the most inclusive and accessible spaces for physical activity.
You don’t even have to swim to benefit – walking in the water or gentle aqua aerobics can all contribute meaningfully to your health.
I also know that for some people the idea of being in a pool can feel daunting, especially if you’re worried about having to wear a swimming costume, but I want to reassure you that it really doesn’t have to be that way.
Perceptions about what is acceptable pool attire are much more flexible now than many people think. Most pools are very happy for you to wear less traditional options, such as shorts, a t-shirt or gym-style clothing, as long as they’re clean and suitable for the water.
You absolutely don’t have to feel pressured into a typical swimming costume if that’s not comfortable for you. The most important thing is that you feel at ease and able to enjoy being in the water.
If you’re taking weight-loss medication, you may also be experiencing changes in energy levels and appetite. Incorporating aquatic activity can complement those changes in a gentle but effective way by maintaining muscle strength and supporting cardiovascular health.
Beyond the physical benefits, aquatic activity can also have an enormously positive impact on mood and confidence. Every visit to the pool builds a sense of achievement, creating a way to measure and feel success beyond numbers on a scale.
At Swim England, we’re passionate about helping more people discover these benefits in a way that feels safe and welcoming.
We know that everyone’s journey is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. But for those interested in trying aquatic activity, my advice is simple: start where you are.
That might mean a quiet swim at your local pool, joining a beginner-friendly aqua aerobics class, or even just spending time in the water getting comfortable. There’s no need to rush, and no need to compare yourself to anyone else.
To find your nearest pool using our Poolfinder tool, click here.
Swim England is a member of the ukactive Strategic Partner Group – find out more here.
Disclaimer: Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of ukactive.
