Tips for getting back into swimming

Are you struggling to start swimming? Or did you used to swim but maybe life (or lockdowns!) got in the way and now you’re out of habit? Signing up for Swimathon could be a great goal to aim for but you might need some help getting started….

7 tips from Swimathon ambassadors to get you back into the pool

Katie from Team Mermaids had this to say: ‘If you are getting back in after a bit of a break our three tips are:

1. Don’t be too hard on yourself to start with. You might not be able to swim as far or as fast at first but it will come back we promise. Build it up gradually and have fun!

2. Find a swim buddy! Having someone you are meeting keeps you accountable and makes the experience much more enjoyable. 

3. Writing out a plan of what you want to do in the swim helps ensure you stick to what you intended to do. Mixing it up with shorter and longer intervals is always fun.’

Louise West had these 4 great tips to share:

1. Find a pool that fits with your lifestyle, it's no good going to one that only has availability when it's not convenient to swim as that gives you an excuse not to go. Find a pool that is welcoming, and a comfortable temperature.  

2. Also you are more likely to keep going if you find a friend who also wants to swim, if you make arrangements with them you are more likely to make the effort when initial enthusiasm wanes.

3. Find a goal that motivates you, it could be a distance, a holiday or to get healthier/fitter or to do a swimathon. 

4. Find the 'why' that makes you want to swim.

6 tips from the Swimathon team to help you get back into swimming

We asked around the Swimathon office too for more tips from swimmers to help you get back into swimming:

1. Start slowly: If you haven't been swimming for a while, it's important to ease back into it gradually. Begin with shorter distances and fewer laps, and gradually increase as you build up your strength and endurance.

2. Invest in proper equipment: Make sure you have a good swimsuit and goggles that fit well. If you're planning on swimming regularly, it might be worth investing in a swim cap and earplugs as well.

3. Warm up and stretch: Just like with any other physical activity, it's important to warm up and stretch before diving into the pool. Take a few laps at a leisurely pace, and then do some dynamic stretches to loosen up your muscles.

4. Work on your technique: If you're feeling a bit rusty, it might be helpful to work with a coach or attend a beginner's swim class to help you refine your technique. Proper technique can help you swim more efficiently and reduce the risk of injury.

5. Stay hydrated: Swimming can be a demanding exercise, so make sure you stay hydrated both before and after your swim. Bring a water bottle with you to the pool and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.

6. Have fun: Above all, make sure you're enjoying yourself! Swimming can be a great way to relax, relieve stress, and stay in shape, so try to have fun with it and don't put too much pressure on yourself.

So there we have it, hopefully these will all help you get started, or re-started with swimming. Why not sign up for Swimathon and give yourself a target to aim towards?