There are numerous benefits of adding swimming to your exercise routine. It’s one of few sports that works just about every muscle group in your body, and is accessible to people of all abilities and ages. This makes it a fantastic way to kickstart a healthier and more active lifestyle, but can also suit those who are already quite fit.
For example, if you’re a keen runner, swimming can be the ideal way to allow your muscles to relax after a run and works completely different areas of your body, so can be a brilliant way to add a bit more variety to your routine.
However, if you really want your time in the pool to be as good for you as possible, it’s important that you pay attention to your technique. As a child, a lot of people are taught by their parents the easiest way to stay afloat, with safety being the prime concern. This means that many amateur swimmers don’t really consider their technique, as long as they are able to get from one end of the pool to the other.
Working on your swimming technique will allow you to travel faster and with less effort, while it will also ensure that you work the right muscle groups.
But how can you improve your swimming technique?
Be aware of your body
Being aware of your body’s position is one of the best ways to significantly improve your technique, but can also be the most difficult to get right throughout your swim. For most strokes you should ensure your body is as flat as possible as this will help you glide through the water. This is especially important for the front crawl, and will also help you keep your feet underwater, allowing your kick to be as powerful as possible.
The best position possible depends on the stroke you are trying to achieve, but regulating your breathing is crucial when it comes to making sure your body is properly positioned.
Check your equipment
If you are trying to take your swimming to the next level, you should make sure you are taking the right stuff with you when you head to the pool. Many people may think swimming is the one sport where you don’t need to worry about getting the right equipment, but if you want to improve your times or your technique, you should really consider this. Goggles are a crucial part of swimming for most people and you should invest in a quality pair. You also need to make sure they are correctly fitted to your head, goggles should be secure enough to stay on at speed, but not leave any severe red marks when you remove them.
The type of swimming costume or trunks you wear can also affect your technique. You should aim to have one that is as streamlined as possible, which may mean opting for trunks or a costume, rather than more trendy shorts and bikinis.
