Parents urged to be active while children swim

Parents are being encouraged to be active while their children swim at Guernsey's Beau Sejour Leisure Centre.

The Health Commission has put two exercise bikes in the swimming pool viewing gallery, and released a survey asking for ideas for new locations.

A 2023 Guernsey and Alderney wellbeing survey found people with children had lower "satisfaction with leisure time" compared to those with no children.

Sam Green, adult physical activity officer at the Health Commission, said by creating new opportunities, they were "making it easier for parents to be active".

Parent Lisa Vahey said when watching children you could not be doing a huge amount and the scheme offered an "opportunity to fit another bit of exercise into your day".

"You get into a routine of the school drop offs, pick ups and everything else, and... you lose a bit of time," she said.

"I might have a go at some point, I'm not sure it would be a regular thing but... it would be good to have a go."

Sam Herridge, from Beau Sejour, said many of the people who visited the leisure centre were spectators and it was important to think about setting an example for younger family members.

"You've got to keep yourself fit and healthy to be able to give them the best life possible," she added.

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