Warm Up to Your Swimming Routine

We are not fish. Sometimes the water can be a scary place. For the swimming beginner, a few laps can bring on fatigue and loss of breath. Unlike land exercises, it is much harder to catch our breath in the water and continue a good workout. This can lead to pool panic for the beginning swimmer. Don’t get discouraged. A new swimmer should be relaxed. Frustration can lead to quitting. As mentioned in the previous articles, make sure to pay close attention to using good techniques and the best body position.

Start out your workout with a slow warm up routine to stretch out the muscles and get the body used to the water. Many swimmers will start just by floating in the water, doing an easier back stroke or a slow free style lap.

Try lying on your side with the bottom arm extended in front with the palm down. The top arm should be at your side with the hand on the upper thigh. Kick slowly across the pool and keep your head in a relaxed position.

To stay afloat easily, make sure your lungs are filled up. Use your lungs and stomach as floatation aids by controlling your breathing. To breathe, turn your head to the side slightly without lifting your forehead.

Once you are feeling warmed up, start by doing four 25’s freestyle. Make sure to concentrate on proper breathing and technique, rather than speed. Start by breathing on every third stroke, alternating sides. This will help to keep arm strength balance, as well as help the beginner stay straight in the lane. As you get more winded, breathe on every other stroke, on the same side. To avoid wearing out that shoulder, you can change the side you are breathing on with each length of the pool.

After you finish your routine, make sure to cool down. You can do this by repeating a similar exercise as the start.