You should be excited about your new venture, but chances are that, as a new swimmer, you have some apprehensions and doubts. Not to worry! Your concerns are most likely no different from any other novice swimmer’s. For a few tips to help you on your swim journey, check out the short guide below. And best of luck with your time in the pool!
Get Comfortable
First things first: you have to allow your body to get fully comfortable in the water. It’s next to impossible to become a decent swimmer if you are always stiff and nervous in the pool. If you’re a little apprehensive about your first few swim sessions, try using a flotation belt to help you feel more comfortable as you ease into the water. The Water Gear Instructional Swim Belt would be a great device to have on hand. It’s made from EVA foam and provides ample amount of buoyancy during swim training or aqua aerobics.
Invest in a Good Pair of Goggles
Many beginner swimmers pick up a bad habit of taking off their goggles between short sets. Not only is this time consuming, but it’s also a luxury that longer swims don’t provide. To prevent picking up this bad habit, pick a pair of goggles that is comfortable to wear in and out of the water. Aqua Sphere Seal XP is a hybrid swim goggle that combines the comfort of a mask with the superior visibility of a competition goggle. It consists of a low profile, one-piece frame that’s great for swimmers of all levels.
Focus on Head Alignment
One of the easiest and most important things you can do when learning how to swim, especially if focusing on the freestyle, is to maintain proper head alignment. Try to keep the water level right at the crown of your head. Good head positioning will easily and naturally align the rest of your body into perfect, streamline positioning. If you’re afraid that the new head placement will send water rushing up your nose, try wearing a nose clip for the first few swims. The Water Gear Synchro Nose Clip features a soft, rubber-covered stainless steal clip that will stay attached to your nose, and therefore keep water out, no matter how rigorous your drills might get.
Work on Isolated Drills
Once you start getting a good feel for the water, you can break down your stroke of choice into isolated drills. Work on your kick for an added boast. Or, try conditioning your upper body to perfect stroke entry and smooth your overall form. While kickboards can be useful to more experienced swimmers, novice swimmers often need a device that’s a bit more versatile. The Water Gear Noodle is an ultra pliable and buoyant aquatic exercise tool. Made from quality Ethafoam, it can be used for a number of different beginner drills.
Keep Working At It
Success rarely comes over night. But if you’re willing to put in the time, you can be a confident swimmer in no time at all!
