Many people love to be in the swimming pool but don’t consider themselves to be great swimmers. If you’d like to improve your swimming skills, here’s seven techniques for becoming a better swimmer.
Swim with a buddy
When we have someone to hold us accountable, we generally work a little harder and exercise a little more regularly. Working together you can push each other to get stronger and reach goals faster than trying to do it alone.
Set Goals
Don’t procrastinate! Set goals on the kind of physical shape you’d like to be in by a certain date and push yourself to reach that goal! Imagine yourself being that person you always dreamed of and commit to getting there.
Eat Right
Prepare healthy post-workout snacks and shakes so you rejuvenate and feed your muscles after a brisk and invigorating swim! Strive to have some carbs and protein within 30 minutes of your workout.
Stretch
Doing 5 minutes of flexibility work a couple times every day will help you become more flexible and help prevent injuries. Stretch when you wake up, when you’re waiting for your coffee to brew, before bed – stretch as often as you can. You’ll be happy you did.
Practice dolphin kicks
Warm up with dolphin kicks. While they may seem boring, they develop muscles and help ready you for laps and other water exercises. You can start with something as easy as doing two kicks off of every wall, and then increasing it as the days and weeks go by.
Rest
One of the easiest things in the world to do, sleep, is something we so often lack enough of. When we sleep, our bodies repair and heal itself as well as build energy for the day ahead. Set a sleep schedule and create habits and rituals that will help you get into sleep mode more quickly.
Meditate, deep breathe, & relax
Deep breathing has a calming effect on the body. It decreases blood pressure, central nervous system activity and stress. Incorporate time to relax and breathe deeply to allow your body to settle after a workout or really, any time of the day.
