Swimming 101: Everything You Need to Know for Your First Class

Swimming is an excellent full-body workout and a great way to relax and stay cool in the summer months. Knowing all the basics of swimming before you dip a toe in the water can help you have a more enjoyable and safe experience. Here’s a beginner’s guide to swimming so you can feel confident and know everything you need to before your first class.

Safety Guidelines

• Always swim with a buddy.


• Know your abilities and physical limitations.


• Be aware of your surroundings, any hazards, and the depth of the water.


• Follow the pool’s posted rules.


• Never dive or jump into unfamiliar or shallow water.


• Be sure to go to the bathroom before getting in the pool.


• Wear the proper swim attire for your pool.

Strokes

• Front Crawl – This style of swimming involves alternate arms pulls creating a figure-eight motion while the legs flutter in a scissor style.


• Breaststroke – This exercise is slightly more challenging than the front crawl as it involves coordinated leg and arm movement.


• Backstroke – This style of swimming is similar to the front crawl in the alternate arm pulls pattern. The difference is that it is done in the back position.


• Butterfly – This style is the most advanced style as it involves coordination of body, arms, and feet. The arms move in a simultaneous butterfly motion and the feet kick like a dolphin.

Breathing

The most important part of swimming is breathing. Taking the right amount of oxygen can help prevent fatigue and lengthen a swim. Here are a few tips for efficient breathing:

• Take short, shallow breaths while swimming.


• Exhale slowly and fully underwater.


• Keep your face relaxed and in the water.


• Take deep breaths to relax and pace yourself.

FAQ

• Do I need to wear a swim cap? – In a public pool, it’s not necessary but wearing a swim cap may help protect your hair from chlorine and keep it from getting in your face.


• What type of goggles should I get? – It depends on your individual needs. For swimming in a pool, a regular swim goggle should suffice. However, if you’re planning on swimming in open water, you may want to look into purchasing a pair of prescription swim goggles.


• How can MYFITAPE help? – MYFITAPE can help you find swimming classes, dives, and pools in your area. You can also find swimming instructors, equipment and more.
  

Have Fun and Stay Safe!

Swimming can be a great way to relax, stay cool, and get some exercise. Remember to stay safe and have fun. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can be sure to have a successful and enjoyable experience in the pool.

What kind of swimming gear should I bring to a Swimming 101 class?

In a Swimming 101 class, you should bring a swimsuit, a pair of goggles, a swimming cap (optional), and a towel. Depending on the level of the class, you might need other swimming accessories such as fins, kickboards, and pull buoys. Lastly, make sure to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated between sets.

What kind of swimming strokes are taught in a Swimming 101 class?

Swimming 101 classes usually focus on teaching the four main competitive strokes – butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke, and freestyle (also known as front crawl). In addition to learning these strokes, classes may also incorporate instruction on water safety, elementary diving skills, and endurance building exercises.

How hard of a workout can I expect in a Swimming 101 class?

The intensity of each swimming class is tailored for each student so that it meets the skill level and goals of the individual. Most classes will include a warmup, drills, and conditioning sessions to increase swimming endurance and muscle strength, or focus on improving technique. Swimming 101 classes often require a moderate amount of physical exertion, but may vary depending on the individual needs and desired outcomes of the class.

How long are the Swimming 101 classes typically?

Swimming 101 classes typically last for 8 to 10 weeks.

Does a Swimming 101 class include safety instruction?

Yes, Swimming 101 classes typically include safety instruction. Safety is of paramount importance when it comes to swimming, and many courses will teach the basics of water safety, such as how to recognize a potential drowning, how to back float and tread water, and respecting pool rules and regulations.

What kind of swimsuit should I wear to a swimming class?

The best kind of swimsuit to wear to a swimming class is a basic racing suit that fits properly. Racing suits are designed with long-lasting fabric and are highly durable, making them the ideal choice for swimming classes. Additionally, they are streamlined and provide the least amount of drag when you’re in the water. Other types of swimwear can be worn during swimming classes, however, it is best to avoid baggy or loose-fitting swimsuits to reduce drag in the water.

What type of swimsuit is best for swimming lessons?

Swim lessons typically require a swimsuit that is comfortable and provides enough coverage so that participants can focus on learning the skills. A one-piece swimsuit is generally best for swim lessons as it provides more coverage.