Getting back into swimming after a long time out can be exhilarating or challenging, depending on your level of interest. If you really want to rediscover a favourite pastime or get yourself back into competitive shape here are a few tips that could help you get back to your swimming best…
1. Go Slow
As you’ve been out of swimming for a long time, your body might not be in the same shape that it was when you were a regular swimmer. Work gradually on regaining your full abilities and strength. Start by swimming as far as you can go, and stop whenever you feel like. You can increase your swimming speed, or distance by each passing week. If you make big jumps in terms of how much you expect from yourself or swim too fast, you might injure yourself.
2. Be Consistent
In order for you to be a great swimmer again, frequency is key. Fit swimming into your schedule on a regular basis, because as they say, practice makes perfect. If you want to make it part of your life again either for fitness or in a competitive sense you should make time for it. If you only swim infrequently you may not make progress very quickly which could demotivate you.
3. Get a New Swimsuit
A new swimsuit will not only boost your morale, but will also make your swimming enjoyable. Look for a new swimsuit that has your favourite colour or a fun design that makes you excited to wear it. The more you love your new swimsuit, the more you will be interested in swimming. Don’t forget to buy new goggles too!
4. Get a Training Partner
A great way to get back into swimming successfully is to not start alone. Find someone who can help you out. You could look for a person or friend who’s a regular swimmer, or you could join a local swimming team. Training partners can help you gain more interest in swimming as someone else is motivating you to go, and if you’re worried about your abilities then maybe partnering up with someone may make you feel less alone.
5. Maintain a Healthy Diet
Swimming requires energy. To make the most of your swimming and help you fuel yourself for the pool you should eat healthier foods and a good balanced diet. Try to avoid fast food and heavily processed foods as they can make you sluggish and are bad for your overall health. Also make sure that you eat something before and after heading to the pool to keep your body in tip top condition for exercise.
6. Maintain a Positive Attitude
Swimming is an exciting activity that can be enjoyed by anybody, regardless of age, ability, size or gender. So don’t focus on any insecurities or any doubts you may have. Think positively, stay focused, and swim to the best of your ability. The more you believe in yourself, the sooner you’ll be back to your previous swimming level.
We hope these tips help to motivate you and help you get back into swimming if you’ve been out of the water for a while. Have you recently started swimming again after a long time out? What tips would you give others to dive back in?
