ONE of the images of the Olympics that will go down in the annals of sporting history is of Eric "the Eel" Moussambani.

The lad from Equatorial Guinea splashed his way down the pool, competing against himself as he struggled to complete his heat.

During the first week of the Sydney Games, swimming provided some of the most competitive, exciting and amusing moments of the Olympics.

Sadly, our own swimmers failed to triumph, with the blame being laid by most of them at the lack of good training facilities in this country.

Olympics aside, swimming remains one of the most popular indoor sports in the North-East.

Visit any public pool and you'll see why it's described as the cradle-to-the-grave leisure activity. From babies to pensioners, swimming has broad appeal because anyone can do it. It's especially good for people with disabilities, even those who are profoundly disabled, because of the buoyancy it gives.

Meanwhile, swimming is just as popular with pensioners who prefer not to throw themselves around the gym. It's also recommended for pregnant women because it's low impact, gentle exercise that's relaxing too.

In fact, it's generally accepted that swimming is one of the best forms of all-round exercise. It's why it's often recommended by GPs under the Exercise on Prescription programme.

John Lawton, director of education with the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA), explains why: "Swimming exercises all the major muscle groups and joints and improves heart and respiratory function. In addition, because it's a non weight bearing activity and the body is supported by the water, it doesn't strain the knees, ankles and lower back like aerobics and jogging can.

"In fact, it's probably the safest form of physical activity you can do."

That's not to say swimming is easy. Of course, you can do as much or as little as wish, and go at your own pace. But fast swimming is excellent for general fitness. "In terms of energy expenditure," says Mr Lawton, "it's very high."

As the different swimming stokes - back crawl, breast stroke and front crawl - use different muscle groups, varying your strokes means all are worked and strengthened.

"If someone is swimming for fitness it's important to do different strokes. The training benefits will be better if you vary your strokes," adds Mr Lawton.

As well as all the physical benefits, swimming has psychological advantages too. It's a good de-stresser - carving through the water, up and down, buoyed by the water is therapeutic and helps you shut off.

Shakira Caine, wife of actor Sir Michael, is just one celebrity who swims for its calming qualities.

According to the ASA, the biggest growth area among swimmers is professional people who nip to the local pool in their lunch hour, swim for half an hour, then head back to the office.

It's also a good way to get children exercising. The pool is fun, they'll be worn out by the end of it, and a couple of 20-minute visits a week will make up for any shortfall they get in PE at school.

And there's an even more serious message about swimming - learning water safety is vital if children ever get into trouble in the pool or in the sea or in rivers on holiday. It may also be good for children with asthma.

At the Bodysense health club at Redworth Hall hotel, near Darlington, the pool is in a Grecian-esque setting below a glass roof under which you swim while watching the stars.

There is equipment to help disabled people into the water, a play pen for small children and flotation aids for children learning to swim.

For adults keen to exercise, the pool is longer than most hotel swimming pools. And for relaxation, there's a spa bath, sauna and steam room just a few steps away.

l Redworth Hall Bodysense is offering readers the chance to kick off the New Year in style with a special Christmas gift. The first 30 readers to collect two Bodysense articles and contact leisure manager Mike Gallagher can claim a week's free use of all the health club facilities. Mr Gallagher can be contacted on 0794 6374342.