Swimming is an ideal form of exercise—but only for those who are interested in a total-body workout that will build strong, lean muscles, go easy on the joints, and increase respiratory capacity. Swimming can ease asthma, strengthen your core, and increase flexibility and endurance.
But let’s start with some water safety facts; did you know that in the United States drowning is the fifth leading cause of injury death? Yes, it is frightening to even think about it but it is true that about ten people become victims of unintentional drowning every day.
This just proves that although swimming can be quite a luxury with a host of health benefits when water safety is overlooked, problems arise.
Swimming is a fun and relaxing activity but before getting wet, you will have to learn. It is good to also be prepared with water safety practices even while you are learning. You can even advance your skills and start making use of water safety products and teach other people.
Avoid taking risks
When you are learning how to swim, it is easy to feel intimidated at the swimming pool when you are the only one at the shallow end.
As much as it might be exciting to take risk in an effort to learn to swim faster, it is not advisable for beginners to go into the deep end.
Overestimating your swimming skills can lead to unintentional drowning.
Don’t swim alone
This applies to both the experienced swimmers and the beginners. It is advisable to always seek a life guard’s supervision.
Lifeguards are trained professionals that can act as the last line of defense in case of an emergency.
Alcohol and water don’t mix
When preparing to go for a swim, do not take any beverages such as alcohol. Even though swimming or boating can be a wonderful time to relax, beware not to be under the influence of alcohol. If you are on a boat, alcohol can cause you to easily slip overboard. It is also a good idea to inform teenagers on the dangers of drinking in the swimming pools.
Put on your life jacket
If you are yet to become a skilled swimmer, be sure to put on a vest that will help you stay safe as you learn. You should not feel lame about wearing a vest because everyone had to start from the beginning.
Watch the kids
When you are out swimming with the family, make sure you watch your kids so that they do not stray far from the rest of the group.
Also check the water depth before allowing the kids to jump or dive in.
According to the American Red Cross, a depth of 9 feet is the minimum for jumping into. Be sure to also teach your kids not to eat or chew while in the pool, it might cause them to choke or swallow the pool water.
Use the appropriate water safety products
Avoid using air-filled water wings that can easily be unplugged or punctured. Make use of the available life jackets especially when you are with children who are still learning how to swim. The usual water wings are not designed for safety like water safety products. Most of them are meant to be used as toys for kids to play within the water.
So there you have it, now you are water aware with the safety tips we have just discussed. As you prepare to go for swims in summer, please practice these safety tips to keep yourself and your family safe and happy.
The ‘Dos’ and ‘Don’ts’ of Swimming – 5 Tips to swim longer and faster.
1.DON’T: Jump right in.
Swimming, like all other forms of exercise requires stretching and prepping before every workout.
DO: Stretches and prep-work between workouts.
Doing proper stretches before a swim session can save you from a lot of agony later on.
2. DON’T: Swim for a long time at a slow pace.
Slow and steady is fine in the beginning for perfecting form—but when you turn it into a leisurely lap, you tend to get lazy about technique.
DO: Speed drills.
Doing short and fast drills rather than long and slow. For a few workouts a week, focus on swimming for time, rather than distance.
3. DON’T: Let your hips sink.
Letting your hips sink will create more resistance in the water, which will slow you down.
DO: Stay on top of the water.
Staying flat and float on top of the water. Not only will this help you cover more kilometers, it will engage your core.
Using a snorkel in the beginning—instead of focusing on your breathing, you are free to focus on using your body correctly and employing the proper technique.
4. DON’T: Rely on your upper body.
You should be engaging your whole body when swimming. When you rely on your upper body muscles too much, you will quickly exhaust them. You won’t be able to complete a full stroke, which will slow you down in the water.
DO: Use your whole body.
Use your arms for pulling your body through the water, your core to rotate in the water, and your legs for the kick, which provides forward momentum.
5. DON’T: Hold your breath.
Swimming coaches, explains that many beginners do what they were taught when they first learned how to swim—take a deep breath, and hold it while your face goes in the water. But you wouldn’t hold your breath while doing any other form of exercise, so why now? This habit will deprive your muscles of much-needed oxygen. Very true.
DO: Breath out slowly through your nose.
Instead of holding your breath, exhale slowly while your face is underwater. When it’s time to inhale again, your face will naturally lift out of the water and you’ll take a breath.