Interested in Swimming

I took aquacize classes at the Y after both my kids were born. Amazing workout. Fun people. And it got me back in the pool and moving towards swimming.

I started back swimming by doing a few laps on my back (much easier) after the workout. It's been a while, but I'm going to start back in the pool next week - first just moving through the water hanging out while my kids splash and swim (great toning). Then starting the hard work of using a kickboard.

There are adult swim classes too. Because they tend to be small and deal with phobic swimmers, you'll get a lot of attention. A little help on your stroke at the beginning might make swimming much more fun for you long term.

Also, just treading water is good exercise, and it does not limit your breathing. It's burning calories and you can move your arms back and forth through the water as you alternately scissor your legs to work out your chest and back at the same time.

Using a kick board or some type of floating device can allow you to just use your legs until you are comfortable with doing a full stroke . I swam in high school, but recently started back. It's a great exercise for when its very hot out and it's non-impact so much less chance of inujry. The breathing is really hard in the beginning . I have been amazed, though, at how quickly the breathing improves. I saw a difference in just three sessions. I would agree on the recommendations for lessons at the Y or somewhere else. Or, you could do a search and see what you can find online. I found some great information to improve my form and suggestions on workouts, as you don't want to just swim back and forth once you get the basic technique down. And don't worry about the flip turn. It's not really necessary.

I would suggest starting with short workouts and rest as much as you need to between laps. This can be hard if you're at a busy pool with lots of swimmers. I always felt embarassed at having to stop so much, but you have to start somehwere. Come on in. The water's fine .

I was a swimmer on the swim team in High School. I still go to the public pool on occasion to swim laps. Don't worry about the flip turns or a fancy stroke that is perfect. Just get out there. You have as much right as the next person to do your own thing. Lots of people don't swim like a pro but trust me, everyone is thinking about their own stuff. Just go! You'll love it.