This entry is part of a Squidkid series on swimming basics. The below provides information about lap swimming and is applicable to any ability, age, pool and state:
- You can learn to swim laps at any age. Assuming the student has enough cognitive development and basic coordination, anyone can learn side breathing which is performed on the freestyle or crawl stroke.
- You must be water safe or have basic swim skills. You should be able to tread water in the deep end for ten minutes and feel comfortable floating. It would be like trying to make a souffle when you cannot boil an egg if you want to swim laps without first being water safe.
- You don’t have to be athletic or in shape to start laps. In fact, it’s better if you don’t or you will be disappointed. Learning to swim laps requires humbleness and success that can only built one lap at a time. It’s like learning to walk all over again.
- You need a pool that offers a comfortable temp. You won’t be coming back if you don’t feel comfortable in the pool. An ideal temperature is 80-degrees. An ideal length from one end to another is 25 yards.
- You need goggles and a good swimsuit. Goggles give visibility. Sight increases ability and comfort. The same can be said about a suit that stays on well.
- Have patience. You won’t turn into a decent swimmer upon first lesson or attempt. You will probably move slow and be exhausted after one or two back-to-back laps. This is normal. You are learning to breathe all over again when it comes to side breathing.
- Be persistent. Swim on a regular basis. It isn’t luck that will get you there, but simply stick-to-it-ness.
- You must practice. Lap swimming success is built on one lap at a time. You get a little better each time, but can only build if you get in the pool and practice.
- Always put safety first. Become aware of the multitude of water hazards that exist in all types of water. Don’t over-estimate your abilities or those around you. All bodies can hyperventilate, become exhausted, or overpowered by large bodies of water.
