There are many benefits to learning to swim, from healthy exercise and rehabilitation from injuries to an improved ability to survive in a disaster or emergency situation. The ability to swim can also make traveling by water more enjoyable. Many people, however, do not know how to swim or have never learned because of fear. This is a major tragedy because the ability to swim can save lives and help people live a more enjoyable life.
There are four common swimming strokes: freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke and butterfly. Each of these has different positions and movements, but they all share one thing: the power comes from a powerful kick and efficient arm movement.
A strong kick allows you to move more quickly through the water by decreasing drag. This is why boats like catamarans, which are hinged high upon their side, are able to zip through the water – they have less resistance than an upright vessel. To get the most out of your kick, try practicing a series of 10 x 25 meters with 10″ rest where you focus on a double-stroke kick for the entire work duration. This will improve your ability to stay tall in the water, build a smooth stroke tempo and ultimately allow you to swim faster.
The arms are the powerhouse of the swimmer and require proper technique to be used effectively. When a swimmer moves too fast and the arm recovery is not completed properly, this can cause the elbow to dip underwater, which in turn creates more resistance. To avoid this, the stroke should be swum in a controlled manner and the recovery should follow a similar rhythm to the stroke.
When you are swimming, it is important to communicate with your lanemates and other swimmers in the pool. Be aware of those who are slower than you and be sure to give them a chance to pass. Gently tap the foot of the person you wish to pass, if there is room, and pull over to the outside of your lane if there is oncoming traffic.
If you notice someone in your lane with a technique flaw, it is generally best to quietly tell their coach about it rather than calling them out publicly. This will ensure they receive the help they need and that you don’t upset anyone else in the process.
Swimming is a great sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It’s a fun way to get active, it can help people of all fitness levels reach their health goals and it provides a great social environment for friends and families. The only downside is that many adults do not know how to swim, but with the right support they can overcome their fears and learn this important skill. With the right preparation, everyone can enjoy the water safely and effectively. The most important step is to begin by finding your comfort zone and spending even a minute at a time in the water.