Swimming is a "waste of time" for most people as their technique is so bad they gain no noticeable health benefit, says an expert. The average pool ability does not maintain a level of intensity high enough to lose weight, the UK's biggest gathering of family doctors was told.Dr Dane Vishnubala, the GP physical exercise champion for Public Health England, said good technique achieves benefits, but many people sent to the pool to get in shape chat and splash around using a "doggy paddle hybrid".Vishnubala conceded that any swimming was better than no activity, but said poor swimmers should try other activities to stay healthy: "It's probably much better to go for a walk, go to a dance class, or go for a run."But Amateur Swimming Association CE Jane Nickerson disagreed, saying: "Social swimming can be just as important for people's mental health and wellbeing as burning calories, particularly for older people or those living with long-term health conditions such as dementia." ..