Swimming is a skill that holds numerous benefits for individuals of all ages, and it is never too late to learn. While many people associate learning to swim with childhood, adults can also benefit greatly from acquiring this valuable skill. Whether for fitness, safety, or personal development, adults who take the plunge and learn to swim unlock a world of possibilities.
What are the benefits?
Apart from its fitness benefits, learning to swim as an adult is crucial for water safety. Drowning remains a significant cause of accidental death worldwide, and being able to swim proficiently can be a life-saving skill. As an adult, you may find yourself in situations where swimming becomes necessary, such as vacations near water, boat trips, or emergencies. Having the ability to swim not only boosts your confidence but also equips you with the tools to navigate water safely, potentially saving your own life or that of others. It is never too late to learn these vital water survival skills.
The positive impacts
Learning to swim as an adult can have a positive impact on mental well-being. Water has a calming effect on the mind and body, providing a sense of relaxation and tranquillity. Swimming can be a therapeutic activity, offering a respite from the stresses of daily life. The rhythmic movements and the sensation of being buoyant in the water can induce a meditative state, promoting mental clarity and reducing anxiety. Swimming releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood-boosting chemicals, which can contribute to a sense of happiness and overall well-being. Taking the time to learn to swim as an adult allows you to incorporate this rewarding and rejuvenating activity into your self-care routine.
Go prepared
There are a number of equipment and accessories that can help you to build confidence. For most, water in their eyes or nose can hold them back. For a newcomer, placing your face into the water and blowing bubbles as a breathing exercise can be disconcerting as the unfamiliar feeling of the bubbles rising over your face can be a shock to start. Adding a nose clip and goggles could help you to relax, taking out the feeling of the water going into your nose or flowing over your eyes.
A pool noodle is a great tool for building confidence. You can hold onto it as you begin taking your first steps into the pool then or as you grow in confidence you could wrap the noodle around your waist or chest to begin practising front crawl or wrap your noodle around your back – across your shoulder blades and under your arms to begin practising backstroke.
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Book some lessons
Swimming can be self-taught, but progressing and building confidence in a programmed session with the support of an experienced instructor would always be advised by us. With the option of private 1-2-1 lessons or group classes, you can learn in an environment that best suits you.
Group lessons are great for building confidence with a group of like-minded individuals all looking to improve their swimming skills. If you’re feeling particularly nervous then the team atmosphere can create a really positive environment and help you to overcome your fears.
1-2-1 Lessons are great personalised lessons which are tailored to you and what you need at that time, helping to build confidence and make progress much quicker than in standard group lessons. With that in mind, they often come at a premium in comparison to group lessons.
No matter the lesson style you choose, you will make progress under the supervision of an instructor.
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Whether you are motivated by a desire for exercise, the need to be safe around water, or a yearning for personal development, taking the plunge and learning to swim is a decision that you will never regret. It is a skill that opens doors to new experiences, enhances your quality of life, and allows you to make the most of aquatic environments. So why wait? Dive in and discover the transformative power of swimming as an adult.
