Is running on the treadmill that necessary?

I go to the gym about 3 times a week and have no set exercise plan. I normally run on the treadmill for between 15 and 20 minutes max, do some work on the exercise machines and go swimming.

I heard recently that swimming for half and hour was better...

than doing the same amount of time on the treadmill. is that true? I find swimming a lot easier than running on the treadmill which I find exhausting and count the seconds every time I use it.

Also are there any other exercises which might be good for me to gain allround fitness and lose weight?

You should have someone taylor your workout to your goals.

Every exercise has its advantages and disadvantages. Swimming is a good whole body workout but it isn't load bearing so it does little for bone density. I know that I don't exercise to as high a heart rate swimming as I do on the stepper so for me swimming is not as good an aerobic exercise.

Resistance training is the most efficient way to improve your strength and appearance. Since you seem to enjoy swimming and hate the treadmill I'd recommend swimming since you are more likely to continue something you like. If you are concerned about improving bone density you may want to so some sort of weight bearing exercise too.

I want to improve my fitness level and reduce weight as well as get rid of those hated 'love handles'. Oh, I hope I'm not letting on too much.