Is it permissible for a Muslim woman to swim in Islamic swimwear that covers the entire body but clings to the body when wet, knowing that men are present, and is it permissible for her to swim while covering herself with a towel before and after exiting the swimming pool?
In summary: It is not permissible for a Muslim woman to go to public or mixed swimming pools due to the prohibitions and corruption found therein. It was reported from the Prophet, peace be upon him: "Any woman who takes off her clothes in other than her husband's house has torn the veil between her and her Lord," and "Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should not let his wife enter the Hammam (public bath)."
As for women-only swimming pools, it is also not permissible to frequent them because they involve the uncovering of awrah (intimate parts), forbidden gazes, and exposure to temptation, and because averting harm takes precedence over gaining benefits. It is encouraged to prevent women from entering swimming and sports clubs because of the erosion of modesty and the neglect of religious and worldly duties that result from it.
There are other permissible ways to exercise and lose weight, provided Islamic guidelines are adhered to.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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