Have you noticed how you can often place a baby into a pool of water and they will try to swim intuitively? They may not think twice about it and simply do what feels natural. Often, they will go on to learn how to swim with confidence quite easily and at a young age. Without a doubt, this is the best time to learn for a variety of different reasons, but it can be a lot more challenging for an adult. If you did not have the opportunity to master this during your formative years, how can you do so now as a grown adult?
Fear of the Water
Many adults have an inherent fear of water and very little or no confidence within. They may have had a bad experience many years ago, and this may have clouded their judgement today. Now, they may simply be afraid to explore.
Time for Action
This can be a significant drawback when you want to socialise with others on a hot summer day. You may congregate around the pool or on the beach, and while others will readily take to the water, you will hold back. As it is about time that you did something about this, you will need to do more than just dip your toe into the water.
Starting off
To begin with, go to a local swimming pool on a day when it is relatively quiet. You need to perform certain exercises in the shallow end, and it's best if you have somebody supportive with you to make you feel more at ease. Wear swimming goggles so that you can open your eyes when you place your head underwater and this will help you to avoid any anxiety.
Eyes Open
Begin by immersing yourself in the water completely for a second or two, so that you get used to the feeling. Keep your eyes open beneath the goggles and just hold your breath momentarily as you do so.
Breathing
Remember, you can hold that breath for quite a long time if need be and for a much greater period than you actually need when swimming. Practice calm breathing exercises when you are in the pool, just to get used to the sensation.
Floating
When you are ready, try to lie face down in the water while holding on to the edge of the pool. This may take a few attempts, but your body will naturally float if you relax. Get used to doing this with your head facing downward and within the water as you hold your breath and open your eyes.
Breakthrough
When you are comfortable with this approach, and your assistant is standing next to you, let go of the side of the pool momentarily. Eventually, you will be able to do this without any fear of panic and will find that you can float on the surface without drama.
Next Moves
When you get to that point, you will have passed a milestone. You will then need to schedule some lessons with a swimming instructor to move onto the next stage.
If you want more information or want professional help, consider looking into private swimming lessons.