Video:Top Tips for Getting Started Swimming

Transcript:Top Tips for Getting Started Swimming

Hi, this is Coach Roger at McCallie School with About.com, and today we are going to discuss the top tips for starting swimming.

Create Swimming Goals

It is a good idea to make a list of swimming goals. Be optimistic, but try to keep your goals practical. Also, do not make them too easy. Give your body an ultimatum, whether it's improving your racing ability, increasing speed, or improving strength. Find a swimming pool or local swimming team. Yes, it can be easy to improve and excel on your own. But it is always a good idea to join or consider local swim teams or coaches. They can help you develop a swim routine and to achieve your goals.

Schedule Time for Swimming

Create a daily and or weekly schedule of your swim training. The more hours and days you put into swimming, the better you get. But don't push yourself past your limits. Try to put in a least 2-5 swim workouts a week, and make them 30 to 60 minutes long. If this is too much for you when you begin, you can adjust to your capabilities. As you improve, you can up your times.

Purchase Proper Equipment for Swimming

Before swimming, you always purchase your basic swim gear. Some things you will need are a comfortable pair of goggles, 2 to 3 competitive style suits, a swim cap, and a waterproof wristwatch. You may also want to purchase a kick board, pull buoy, flippers, and hand paddles if you are training alone. If you are with a team or a coach, they will have these for you, but it is still a good idea to purchase some of your own.

Create Proper Swim Workout

In order to achieve your goals, you must have a swim workout. You can visit About.com for some ideas or ask your swim coach to help develop one. It is a good idea to make one of your own so you can follow it exactly. Always have a warm up at the beginning, then your main workout, and end with your warm down. Once you are ready and committed, start swimming. If you have any trouble with your workouts or schedule, you can always adjust to your capability. You might also want to visit your local physician to ensure you are in a good state of health to start swimming.

Thanks for watching. To learn more, visit us on the web at About.com.