Swimming: Getting Started

Wish to relax? Need a fit body? Need to beat the heat? Or just looking for a mermaid? Well, the answer to all these queries lies in swimming! Trite though it may sound but swimming actually is a panacea for most modern-day illnesses.

Benefits

Swimming is a very healthy activity, as it exercises all your muscles and keeps your body in tune. Many doctors recommend swimming for overcoming commonplace ailments or for getting your strength back after an injury. Water also removes gravitational pull in your bones and joints, thereby reducing the chances of strain or injury. In fact, swimming is one of the best all-round routes to fitness. But if none of these reasons appeal to you, take a swim just to beat the heat.

Is swimming for me?

Of course it is. It is never too early or too late to learn to swim. The younger you start the better, because this is when you learn the quickest. But people in their 70s can also learn to swim successfully. Children of two, three or even younger can be taught basic swimming skills and be encouraged to move through the water unaided. But if you can’t swim, whatever your age, there’s no better time to start than now.

Where to swim?

Of course, the best option is to go to a place close to where you stay. Though it is possible to swim in the sea, rivers, canals, lakes or ponds, these places are seldom suitable for beginners because of hazards such as currents, weed, and sudden changes of depth and cold water. However, before you take that plunge, make sure the swimming pool is right and safe.

What do I look out for?

The swimming pool must have a full-time lifeguard, who is a trained instructor. But if you are a beginner don't go swimming alone until you feel confident in the water. It is better to be accompanied by an experienced swimmer or a teacher at first. The water temperature in the swimming pool should ideally be 26-29'C, which helps you relax and make the right movements. If you have a temperature-controlled swimming pool that’s great, but if you don’t never mind. Just avoid it in the winters. The water should ideally be chlorinated and cleaned very often.Avoid overcrowded swimming pools if you are looking for a relaxing swim.

Gear Time

Swimming is frankly the most inexpensive of most sports. All you need is a swimming costume, a towel and pay the price of admission, and you are ready to go. There are a number of aids to look out for before you take that first splash:

For beginners: Inflatable arm bands, rubber rings, floats and flippers will help you to float and will get your body into a horizontal position in the water.

For all: A bathing cap is useful for keeping hair out of your eyes when you swim, but don't expect it to keep your hair completely dry. Successful swimming means putting your head in the water, so some water is bound to get in under your cap. Use goggles, if the chlorine in the pool stings and ear plugs to avoid water going into the eardrums.

Basic Etiquette

Just like going to school, working at office and anything you do in life has a certain decorum, the same applies to swimming. Swimming pools are often shared properties, so please remember to do unto others as you would like others to do to you.

Before entering the water

Visit the lavatory and take a shower, if one is provided
Wash your feet in the footbath.
Never go swimming if you have an infection or an open sore.
Never duck anyone under the water. This could frighten a beginner and damage his confidence.

SAFETY FIRST

Swimming is fun, and a potential lifesaver. But it can be risky too. Follow these simple guidelines, and be on your way to conquer three-fourths of the world.

• Stay in your depth until you have learned to swim.
• Try to make sure that you never swim alone. If you get into trouble you may need help.
• Take care when walking near a swimming pool, because the side is often wet and slippery. Avoid running by the sides.
• Never eat or chew anything while swimming, as this could be dangerous. And never swim on a full stomach. You need to wait for at least an hour after eating a heavy meal to allow time for digestion.
• If you do swim in the sea, be very careful when using a rubber ring. You could be carried away from the shore very quickly by a current.
• Dry yourself thoroughly after each swim, to avoid colds and chills.
• Avoid the temptation to dive, unless you have learnt it from an instructor. And never dive into the shallow end.

So what are you waiting for? Get Set! On Your Marks! And go!