10 TIPS TO START SWIMMING

 TIP 1: THE RIGHT CLOTHES

Are you a lady? When it comes to swimming, a bathing suit is ideal and practical. A bikini can easily shift and come off. If you want the bathing suit to stay in place, you have to make sure that your edges fit well everywhere and that there is no space anywhere when you raise your arms.

Are you male? Make sure the pants fit comfortably and avoid irritation from chafing. A tight speedo or for most swimmers nowadays a tight swim boxer with lifeguard class

Many swimwear is made of polyester, which is a very durable fabric. Often you will also see Lycra, spandex or elastane on the label. These materials provide the stretch. The less of these stretch materials in the swimsuit, the longer the swimsuit will last.

TIP 2: SWIMMING GOGGLES OR NOT?

Swimming goggles help you see underwater and protect your eyes from irritation (caused by chlorine). But how do you choose the right model? Swimming goggles must fit exactly and be adapted to the shape of your face.

Choose the correct adjustability of your swimming goggles. There are various systems available to adjust your swimming goggles to size. Choose the system that best suits your face shape and gives you the most comfort. 

The type of goggles depends on the function of the type of activity. Choose swimming goggles that are comfortable and guarantee good stability during your swim.

You choose the color of the glasses based on the most common swimming location. If you swim outside or in a pool with a lot of light, it is best to choose goggles with dark or photochromic lenses. If the pool is rather dark with little light, opt for clear or light-colored glasses.  

Once you have chosen swimming goggles, you must also maintain and store them properly . Rinse your goggles after use, avoid too long exposure to sunlight and protect your goggles (especially the glasses) against salt and grease. Do not touch the inside of the glasses, otherwise the vapor barrier may be damaged. Finally, put your swimming goggles back in the storage box after use, so that you avoid dirty spots and scratches.    

TIP 3: SWIMMING CAP

Make sure your swim cap is easy to get on and off. A thin silicone that is very stretchy where a little water enters or one of a flexible fabric that is not waterproof. Both swimming caps ensure that the hairs are held together well. In addition, you do not lose heat through your head and you are therefore less cold. Your swimming cap must therefore remain comfortable and in place while swimming. 

TIP 4: WHY SWIM?

Swimming is fun and healthy at any age. It is good for your condition and mood, all year round. In addition, your joints are less stressed in the water and that makes the risk of injuries much smaller. 

Find a training partner. Swimming together is even more fun and motivating to achieve your goal. Ask in the pool if group sessions are organized.

TIP 5: WHEN TO SWIM?

Inform yourself about the opening hours of the swimming pool. They often indicate via their website or a timetable whether the swimming pool is busy or not at certain times (eg: schools, groups, lessons, ...). In most cases, each pool has a lap or two available for casual swimmers (out of a club) with lifeguarding training usa

TIP 6: SWIMMING PACE

Always start and end your workout in the pool with a shower and foot bath. Find the swim lane that best suits your pace. Faster swimmers will chase you and slower ones will only get in the way. Stay clear of the swimmer in front of you and don't overtake at inappropriate times. Don't swim too fast in the beginning. You mustn't get out of breath. Speed ​​is not a priority. What's more important? Being able to breathe evenly and calmly, keep your temperature, work through your schedule and so on.

TIP 7: WHICH DISCIPLINE?

Whether you choose breaststroke, freestyle/crawl, backstroke or butterfly, it doesn't matter. Make sure you get the hang of it, like it and can keep it up!

TIP 8: SWIMMING WITH THE FAMILY

You can swim with your children, partner or a friend. It is more fun and motivating to achieve your goal. Everyone can swim a stroke of their choice at their own pace. 

TIP 9: (FREE) SWIMMING OUTSIDE

There are many pleasant swimming ponds in Flanders, where you can enjoy swimming when the weather is nice. Some examples are the Lilse Bergen, the Zilvermeer, the Hoge Rielen, Campinastrand, the Paalse Plas and so on. Consult the internet for a swimming pond near you!

TIP 10: SWIM SAFELY

If you sustain an injury while swimming, then you are well covered against possible medical costs via Sporting 

Also read about: This is why you should include swimming in your exercise routine