Swimming: 2022's New Years Resolution

Getting Your New Year's Resolution Started:

As we dive into the New Year and all of the 'resolutioners' start to flood into the Gym, why not take a different approach this January. Swimming is great for both your body and mind and is a fun way to exercise. Swimming uses most of your muscle groups so a well planned swim could be just as, if not more beneficial than a Gym workout! If you are nervous about getting back to the pool, just inform the lifeguard on duty who is there to ensure the safety of every swimmer in the pool.

Benefits:

Swimming, amongst many things, is a great way to improve your health. With regular swimming proven to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke; and being a low-impact sport, it is suitable for anyone, young or old. The natural buoyancy of the water also supports your body, evenly distributes your weight and relieves pressure from your joints.  It's a great life skill which also aids in weight loss, muscle strengthening, toning and endurance.

Swimming requires the use of several muscle groups within each of the four strokes, Front-Crawl, Backstroke, Breaststroke and Butterfly. This means you will more likely have a full body workout whilst swimming as opposed to working an isolated muscle group like someone that chooses to go to the gym.

Swimming also has great benefits to your mental health. It has been shown to lower stress levels, reduce anxiety and depression, and even improve sleep patterns. It is also a fantastic social activity, whether you choose to take a friend with you to your session, or make new friends whilst you’re there. If you’re in the pool or outdoor swimming, everyone supports each other and encourages them to be their best.

Motivation:

Planning isn't always essential, but it's a great way to boost your motivation. Going in with a clear idea of what you would like to achieve from the session will push you to try harder. 

Whether you have a certain number of laps planned, a duration of time, or a list of sets with different strokes and equipment, such as a kickboard or pull buoy, all of these things will push your session to the next level.

If you are struggling with knowing where to begin then perhaps looking into swimming events, triathlons or clubs would be a good place to continue your training. With regularly scheduled sessions and a plan in place it may be easier for you to take a different approach and increase your motivation. By joining a club you will also have the added benefit of socialising during your workout and boost your motivation.

Alternatively, mix it up. Go to the pool for a leisurely swim with family or friends, making the effort to just go to just turn up is sometimes more of an accomplishment than the session itself. Just by attending the venue you are turning your visits into a habit rather than a chore, and by going with a loved one you will bring the fun back into your session, ensuring it remains enjoyable!

Lessons:

If you cannot swim, or you are hesitant to get started after a long time out then why not try some swimming lessons? This will help to build water confidence and improve your technique whilst in a controlled and supervised environment. It will also help to motivate you to continue your swimming journey as most swimming lesson providers offer between 30-60 minutes per week.
We do, however, recommend that if you are a nervous beginner that you consider private 1-2-1 swimming lessons to get started to ensure that your instructor has the time to really focus on you to help you achieve your goals. 

Our swimming partners at SwimExpert and HydroKidz are happy to help you get started!

The Right Swimwear: