The Unconfident Swimmer sent in this great little guide. If you’re a nervous swimmer, and need tips on how to get acquainted with the water, you’ll love this…
Growing up I always struggled with swimming, despite having fantastic lessons at the Felixstowe Leisure Centre and at Colneis. My brain just would not comprehend how to swim and I was petrified of putting my face in the water or laying flat on my back! Everyday I have been swimming, even if I force myself I am determined to build up on strength and my confidence and to be the best version of myself. I swim in 1.2 metres as I can’t quite brace myself for the 2 metres deep yet. I did try the other day but I felt too anxious. Swimming with anxiety is hard as your brain is convinced that you are in danger (fight or flight), so having the ability to reassure yourself by telling yourself ‘look the water is a friend’ etc., this helps.
So, here are some tips I’ve gathered over my experience. If you’re like me and really struggle with swimming and have mild anxiety when it comes to it, then these might work for you…
To begin with, I would go with my incredible friend, she would encourage me to swim and inspires me. Her personality is bubbly and uplifting and I found this helped a lot! Admittedly, she’d end up doing twice as much as me but knowing you have support there so super reassuring. To help build my confidence I practiced putting my head under the water. By doing this I was able to tick off putting head under water.
Doggy paddle or do whatever works for you when doing lengths for now. Who cares if you’re not doing it properly - you’re moving - IN WATER!! I was self conscious about this and my friend told me she couldn’t even tell I was doggy paddling - no one knows 🤫
I felt super scared when I first went in after not swimming for ages! Something that helped me was holding onto the sides (tucked in a corner - but be careful not to bump your head), and just lift your head and legs up and float on your back. Holding on the sides helped as I was safe and wasn’t worried I would fall under.
How to overcome swim anxiety?
It sounds simple and kind of silly but breathing is the best way to overcome swimming anxiety. I know - why didn’t I think of that?! Well… while swimming when I feel panicky and I’m mid-length, I just focus on my breathing and on something in particular, whether it’s a float on the side of pool or whether it’s a step, etc.
Keeping a good, straight core position while swimming is key - how does this relate to swimming anxiety you may wonder? Well, for me anyway, maintaining a straight core is hard, sometimes I get hard and sway a little with my legs. While I’m worried I tend to sway and wobble, however, to ensure you don’t wobble, focus on your core and I find that this helped me. Might not work for everyone but just throwing it out there. ☺️
Anyway, these are just some things I’ve noticed in my swimming journey in the past few weeks, let’s hope I improve and stick to this!
~ Unconfident Swimmer x