Just starting out swimming? Here's a guide to a few simple things that can make your swimming session that bit more enjoyable and productive. From warm up to wearing the right goggles, you'll be clocking up the lengths in no time.
1. Glide to warm up
Don’t get in the pool and begin swimming lengths before you are warmed up. Start your session by gliding for a few minutes; this gets the blood flowing and your body gets used to being in the water.
2. Practice your breathing
After you’ve done some gliding, try going on your side and getting some breathing practice. Breathing is the key to a successful stroke, and the more time you can spend perfecting your technique, the better.
3. Check the swimming pool session times
Most swimming pools now have allocated lane sessions when the lanes are sectioned off. Outside of lane sessions you could be weaving in and out of other swimming pool users which can be really frustrating!
4. Look after your kit
You should wash your swimming gear thoroughly after each swim to ensure that you are getting rid of the chlorine. This will help prolong its life.
5. Choosing your gear
Choose carefully and make sure you aren’t just buying what looks good but what is actually practical. Some swimsuits and trunks from trendy boutiques might look great but could lose their shape or fade after a few swims.
6. Get a plastic box for your gear
Go to any of the DIY warehouses and buy one of the plastics tubs that you use for home storage. Throwing wet gear into one after a swim is a lot more sensible than putting it into a sports bag.
7. Wear a swimming cap
Regular use of a heavily chlorinated pool can affect your scalp and on occasions make it flake. You can avoid this by wearing an inexpensive cap — it can make all the difference.
8. Wear a lined swim top
If you feel like you can never get warmed up in the water then invest in a lined top as it can significantly increase your enjoyment of your swimming. Make sure it is a close fit without restricting movement. Pool temperatures can vary considerably so don’t assume you can wear the same in each.
9. De-mist your goggles
Goggles are an essential part of swimming correctly and they can mist up if they are not looked after. Get some de-misting fluid and use regularly before a swim.
10. Shaded goggles for outdoors
If you’re thinking of doing some open water swimming in the summer, consider getting some goggles with shaded lenses. They will act like regular sunglasses and protect your eyes from the sun.
