Whether you’re looking for an efficient stroke, trying to learn a new one or simply improving your speed, there’s always room to grow as a swimmer. And that growth doesn’t have to take place alone. The swimming community is large and welcoming, filled with folks of all ages and abilities endowed with a broad range of skills, interests and fitness goals. The sport is also full of camaraderie, and the support that grows organically among swimmers makes it a special group of athletes.
While there are plenty of things you can do to improve your swim, there are some basics that every swimmer should know before they enter the water. For example, entering the water with caution, avoiding collisions and understanding how to read a pool’s markings are all important aspects of swimming that will prevent injuries and help you get more out of your practice time in the pool.
To avoid drowning, be sure to make each breath count. Gasping for air can actually keep you underwater, so make sure to exhale completely and re-inhale before taking another breath. This will reduce the strain on your neck and shoulders, particularly if you’re beginning to build up endurance. Similarly, breathing on alternate sides can reduce the pressure on your chest and shoulders. It’s also helpful to breathe when your head is close to the surface, rather than waiting for it to reach the surface at the bottom of the pool.
When it comes to learning a new stroke, a great way to stay motivated is by joining a Masters swimming program, where you’ll be part of a larger community of athletes who are all dedicated to their own swimming improvement. You’ll find that the experience is rewarding and fun, and you’ll be challenged in a way that you would not be able to achieve on your own.
Another key tip is to practice the catch-up technique. This will help you stay tall in the water and maintain a smooth stroke tempo. Essentially, imagine your lungs and ribcage as the ends of a seesaw – you can move faster by swinging your torso high above the water.
Finally, it’s vital to pay attention to your pace clock, and ensure that you are following the prescribed workout set for the day. The pace clock is usually displayed in a prominent location, either on a white board or a digital display that can be seen from all lanes. Depending on the facility and coaching staff, workout sets may also be communicated through hand-held or lighted signals, printed sheets distributed to each lane or delivered verbally by a coach from the corner of the pool. This will help to prevent swimmers from accidentally colliding with one another and causing unnecessary congestion in the pool. Keeping an eye on your surroundings will also help you avoid getting caught in a rip current. This is a common problem for swimmers, and it can undo all the good work you’ve done in the pool if you become disoriented and are forced to swim against the current.