Swimming tips

Swimming is so much fun! Do you already know how to swim well enough to swim laps? If not, take an adult swim class to learn proper technique-proper breathing, strokes, etc. After you get through all the levels of classes, you can join a Master's swim group to train with others and continue working on your technique and speed. Swimming is all about good form and body position. When you get good form, you can swim a long time, but it can take awhile to get to that point.

Yes, wear a swim cap, your pool may require it for longer hair. I have short hair, but I don't like it flopping in my face while I swim. It helps protect your hair regardless of length. Some people put conditioner on their hair before putting on their swim cap but I haven't needed to do that.There are several de-chlorinating products I use after swimming--shampoo, body wash, and a suit rinse. Some of the brands are TriSwim, Ion, and UltraSwim. I get mine on Amazon. I also use a good body lotion, but I've always done that even when not swimming.

I don't use the suit spinner in the locker room, over time it can shred your suit. Just bring a sealed baggie to put it in so things don't get wet. I also bring an old terry bath mat (or small towel) to stand on in the locker room while changing. It is cleaner and warmer than the floor. Our floor is visibly clean but you can be sure there are germs like athlete's foot and foot fungus in the best kept locker room.

I started swimming 20 minutes or less but now am up to an hour 2-3x week. I am currently doing a virtual challenge to swim 10 miles in January.

I do water jogging

I use a skin cream after swimming--it protects my skin the next time I go. Don't put it on just before swimming, it all comes off in the water and that's not nice for the other swimmers. I've been swimming for 23 yrs, I also do acquagym. I love it. My hair is longish, blond and very fine. I put on a regenerating product, a cloth cap, and a rubber cap over it all. That way I get an hour of hair conditioning in 3 x a week. My hair dresser asked what I'm using, I'm 64 and my hair is thick and fine. I shampoo and condition normally in the shower after. Ask your doctor what movements are better for your rehab, do those and then branch out. Good luck and enjoy!