How to Start a Swimming Program to Keep Fit

Swimming is a fantastic, full body workout that can be intimidating to start. There's the issue of being seen in a swimsuit and the concern over your swimming skills. But you can get past those concerns to start a swimming program that will keep you in top shape.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Swimsuit
• Pool access
• Goggles
• Swim cap

1. Don't worry about how you look. Swimmers come in all shapes and sizes. Focus on being proud of yourself for getting in the water.
2. Buy some decent goggles to minimize the chlorine in your eyes and a swim cap to protect your hair.
3. Make a date with a friend with similar fitness goals to go swimming and stick to it. It's safer to have a partner in the water. Although swimming isn't a social sport while you're swimming laps, it's more fun when you've got someone to talk to you in the hot tub afterwards.
4. Initially focus on the time you spend swimming laps, not the number of laps that you swim. It's easy to lose count of the laps you've swum, which can be frustrating. However, most pools have large, easily viewed clocks. Tracking your time in the water is more productive in the beginning.
5. Use whatever stroke suits you. Start with freestyle and move to the breaststroke when you're feeling fatigued. Try a backstroke for fun and throw in some butterfly. Do what works best for you; don't focus on perfection.
6. Set up a few lessons with a local swim coach if you'd like to improve your stroke. They can also provide connections to other swimmers or swim programs if you'd like to continue pursuing this form of fitness.