I am an adult. Can I learn to swim at an older age?
Many people believe that it is impossible for an adult to learn to swim. However, this idea is a myth. As in any sport, swimming allows us to start learning with lifeguard training it even late, as long as we have the will and dedicate ourselves to it.
Knowing how to swim is an essential skill in human life. Besides being a physical activity that offers many benefits when done systematically, it is a safety method and reduces the possibility of drowning. It is no coincidence that many parents encourage their children to learn to swim from an early age.
There are specific actions that make learning more efficient and allow for faster progression. Do you want to know what you need to do to learn to swim as an adult?
How did the myth that adults can’t learn to swim come about?
The fact that children can easily learn new things has created the idea that only at a young age is it possible to learn more complex sports, such as swimming. The truth is that the most ideal age for a first contact with any sport is childhood, when the child knows and tries different motor stimuli, which are stored in his memory and he will use them if necessary.
On the other hand, this does not mean that it is impossible to learn something new as adults. Older people can acquire new knowledge but it will be a little harder for the brain to put it into practice.
In a previous article we have analyzed the benefits that swimming offers to our health, removing diseases and giving a life full of well-being. But apart from that, learning to swim at an older age gives a feeling of fulfillment, that an obstacle has been overcome, giving us strength to overcome others that may seem impossible.
Also, knowing how to swim can be decisive for various situations and difficulties.
What do you need to do as an adult to learn to swim?
In the swimming pool
If after what we mentioned, you realized that learning to swim does not “know” age, and you are wondering what is the next step to get into the water, read carefully what we will tell you below.
The first step is to find the ideal pool for you. Before you decide where it will be, we suggest you take into account:
- Easy access, i.e. close to your home or work.
- If the coaches are Graduates of Physical Education with a specialization in swimming or other certifications.
- If your space looks pleasant and makes you feel comfortable.
- Initially prefer pools that you step on, you will feel more secure. When you are now independent, look for deeper pools.
After choosing the place, the necessary equipment is in order. To feel even more motivated, invest in good quality accessories and clothing. You will need:
- Swimming or triathlon swimsuit if you feel uncomfortable, ideally not Bermuda shorts (you don’t want to feel
- like you’re dragging a hot air balloon right?)
- Swimming goggles
- A cap
- Towel or bathrobe and slippers if you don’t already have them
- Now that the bag is ready, we give you 2 more tips:
Take a friend with you. The company can prove to be an important motivating factor during the lessons.
Of course, if you don’t have this option, we suggest you set goals for yourself that will keep you focused.
Coach’s advice
Always start in a shallow pool , to learn the basic swimming techniques. By shallow we mean the point where you step and you can stand with your shoulders and head out of the water. In this way, from the very first hands you will learn to float and put your head in the water, a more hydrodynamic position, effective for swimming.
Stand on 2 feet , stretch your arms forward and horizontally on the surface of the water and submerge your face in the water. Turn the face sideways out of the water take a breath , submerge the face in the water and exhale. Avoid inhalation through the nose, because it may be near water. Inhale through the mouth and exhale through the water simultaneously through the mouth and nose.
These are 2 basic exercises of a first adaptation to the liquid element and then there are exercises for learning arms and legs that will teach you to float and swim for a longer time. It goes without saying that learning is always guided and planned by a swimming coach.
