Swimming is a sport that makes sense in Brisbane. It’s the coolest way to keep fit in summer and heated pools in winter mean you don’t have to stop your regime. To get fit and swim laps, almost any pool of 25 metres or more can suffice. Read our feature about Brisbane’s pools including those that are run by Brisbane City Council and the universities. Or here’s our list of some of the best pools for swimmers who like to count the kilometres.
Fortitude Valley Pool
This is serious swimming! The Fortitude Valley Pool is the domain of people getting fit and doing countless laps. It’s also the home pool to many of Brisbane’s elite swimmers. But don’t let that stop you - as long as you can swim 50 metres this pool is for you too. Kickboards and fins can be borrowed.
The Valley pool is heated in winter and open all year round. There’s no onsite parking so look at the options for public transport.
Centenary Pool
Watch the underwater black line from this great lap swimming pool. It’s central to the city in Spring Hill and there’s an adjoining gym if you want to combine workouts. There aren’t usually many children splashing about in this pool so you can swim a serious distance without disruption.
Somerville House, South Brisbane
The 8 lane, 50 metre Somerville House pool is open to the public for training and swimming. It’s open super-early, from 5am, and you can join a squad if you need the motivation.
Chandler Aquatic Centre
Imagine you are part of the Australian swimming team (which included Tracey Wickham and Lisa Curry) in the Commonwealth Games of 1982 when doing laps here. The Chandler Aquatic Centre indoor pool is considered ‘fast’ and you can make use of the many facilities including the swim shop, fitness club, childcare and café.
Enoggera Pool & Squash (open in winter)
If you want a quiet pool to do 25 metre laps, then head to the understated Enoggera Pool. With no fancy facilities, it is tucked away from Samford Road but has all you need.
If you are keen to join a swimming club, find a club near you or contact the Brisbane Swimming Association for more information.
Ask at your local pool, including those within school grounds, if they run squads. Many of them do, open to both adults and children.
Why do you get up early or swim in your lunch break or after work? Where do you like to swim laps?
