Local people urged to make a splash for diabetes charity
People across Rhondda Cynon Taf are being challenged to take part in Swim22, a charity event where swimmers of all ages can swim the distance of the English Channel in their local pool.
Diabetes UK Cymru is encouraging everyone, from experienced swimmers to doggy paddlers, to sign up to the challenge to get fit and help raise money.
Swimmers will have three months, from February 22 to May 22, to swim 22 miles in their local pool. They can either take part on their own or as part of a team, so keen swimmers can do the whole challenge themselves, or 22 swimmers can take on a mile each.
When they sign up swimmers will receive a pack with all the information they need and will also have access to the Swim22 website. This will help them keep track of how many lengths have been completed, earn swimming badges and share their progress.
As well as being a fun way of raising money for Diabetes UK Cymru, swimming is a great way to stay active and maintain a healthy weight, which is key to reducing your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Joseph Cuff, Fundraising Manager for Diabetes UK Cymru, said: “It takes between 21 and 30 days to form a new habit, so if you’re looking to kick-start a healthy lifestyle and set yourself a great challenge, Swim22 is for you.
“Getting family and friends to sponsor you, for every length, every 100 metres or even every mile, will raise money for research and support that will change people’s lives. It takes roughly 50 lengths a week in a 50-metre pool to cover the distance, so it is a real challenge that is still achievable.
“Diabetes is one of the most devastating and fastest-growing health crises of our time. With your help, we will create a future where diabetes can do no harm.”
For more information and to sign up visit www.diabetes.org.uk/swim22 or call 0345 123 2399. There is no closing date, so swimmers can sign up anytime so long as the challenge is completed by 22 May 2017.
