5 Tips For Beginner Swimmers

Regardless if you want to compete in swimming competitions or just want to get some low-impact exercise, swimming can be a fun activity. However, if this activity is new to you, it's ideal to be prepared in advance so that you can get the most out of your time in the water and be safe. 

Tip #1: Wear googles

One of the first things you will want to do is to keep your googles on while spending time in the water. This will help protect your eyes from becoming irritated by chlorine. 

Tip #2: Buy a snorkel

Learning how to swim will take time and effort. It's also important to use the right form in the process. By purchasing a swimmer's snorkel, this will allow you to do so. This inexpensive device will allow you to concentrate on difficult kicks, like the butterfly's dolphin kick. A snorkel can help you master the front crawl (freestyle) and breast stroke without having to worry about breathing patterns.

Tip #3: Use fins

Swimming can be physically engaging exercise, and it's ideal to be prepared as much as possible.  One piece of equipment that can assist you is fins. These will be placed on your feet and are an ideal way to increase the flexibility of your ankles.

Tip #4:  Pick up ear plugs

Dealing with swimmer's ear is sure to prevent you from swimming as much as you like. The symptoms of this condition include clogged ears that may even decrease your ability to hear as well. Wearing ear plugs during your time in the water can help reduce the chances of you getting swimmer's ear.

Tip #5:  Set reasonable goals

You may want to establish specific goals to motivate you to become a better swimmer and to increase your motivation. For instance, you could set a specific time that you should be able to swim one lap. Or, you could work on flip-turns and continuous lane swimming. Once you're able to meet a goal, set another so that you keep improving as a swimmer. If you aren't sure where to start, taking swim lessons or going to a class at a club, like YMCA of Greater Cincinnati, is a great way to learn from other experienced swimmers and reach your goals.

Spending time in the water has a number of benefits for any individual. If you follow the previous tips, you will be able to improve your health and work towards accomplishing your swimming goals.