Good water: Champneys Springs

As a Shaw Method teacher you spend quite a lot of time immersed in water so you get to be quite a connoisseur of swimming pools, writes Sheelagh Powell. That’s why I feel really lucky that I get to teach at one of the best: Champneys Springs in Leicestershire.

Champneys Springs is part of the world famous Champneys group of spas and is the most modern of the company’s locations. The pool has been designed with a dual function in mind as it has two clear sections – one for swimming 25m lengths, and the other for lessons and relaxation. The smaller section, where I teach, is a calm oasis. It’s perfect for passing on the transformative and relaxing practices of Shaw Method. Another benefit is that the pool is of uniform depth (1.3m throughout) and of above average temperature.

Lit almost exclusively by natural light, the pool has three glass walls offering views of extensive grounds which include a formal garden, and even a football pitch.

What I  particularly love about the pool at Springs is its cleanliness. The housekeeping staff are always maintaining the pool area and replenishing the white fluffy towels that are complimentary to all users. I love to enjoy a relaxing swim when I’ve finished teaching and find that the water is so clean there’s no need for high levels of chlorine. I should also mention that patrons at Springs must be aged 16 or above so there are no noisy children to disturb your blissed-out glide through the pool.

Naturally, at a first class venue like Champneys you can enjoy other spa facilities and there is a hot tub and sauna on the poolside. There are further saunas and steam rooms in each of the changing rooms.

I think the combination of Shaw Method and Springs is a marriage made in heaven, and even though I’m teaching it never feels remotely like work. The chance to drift through the clear blue water when I’m finished with my pupils really is the icing on the cake.

If you’d like to spend some time at Champneys Springs, Art of Swimming are hosting a Shaw Method holiday, led by Steven Shaw, at the spa from 12-18 September 2010. Find out more …

To book a lesson with Sheelagh Powell call 020 8446 9442 or email info@artofswimming.com

Photo supplied by Champneys