Swimming is one of the most intense cardio workouts there is, and is also a low-impact exercise. Swimming doesn’t only help you burn calories, it works effectively to stretch and strengthen the muscles, and also improve breathing, thereby improving your lung capacity. Becoming a better swimmer makes it much easier for you to get these benefits and more. So, rather than hanging by the pool or taking just selfies by the beach side without diving in, here are some tips to help you become a better swimmer. Read on to learn more.
1. Wade in
Robbin White, co-founder of the Starfish Aquatics Institute, suggests that you float on your back or stomach, in order to familiarize yourself with the weightless sensation. You should also wear flippers to help you glide through the water, and wear a snorkel to focus solely on your strokes.
2. Breathe the right way
Swimming requires a conscious and proper way of breathing, so it is very important that you pay attention to how you breathe, as it can mess up your stroke if not done the right way. Inhale outside the water and exhale underwater. It’s actually not easy exhaling under the water, but you should try getting used to the feeling of blowing bubbles under the water in the shallow end of the pool. Exhale with your nose and mouth, gently, then roll your head to the side and inhale through your mouth.
3. Reach out far
Stretch one of your arms far and extend it ahead of you, to help you breathe the right way. Reaching far with one of your arms will make your body twist to the other side, making it easier to roll your head and inhale, as explained previously.
4. Your body should be in line
Your body should be straight with your head in line with your shoulders and hips, in the best way it can. This will save you from sinking, as you are likely to push the water ahead of you when you lift your head above the waterline.
5. Kick from the hip
Kicking from the hip while you swim won’t make you get tired easily as you move through the water. Keep your legs close together, and straight, with a slight bend at the knee and glutes firm. Then, kick from the hips.
6. Point your toes
Point your toes while you kick. Although this helps you swim better, it’ll only be easier for you if you have strong calves, so you may have to engage in a few exercises, at the gym, to strengthen the calves.
7. Push your chest down
The water supports your body, so your head and trunk should be a little lower than your hips in the water. Try to push your chest down, as far as you can, till you feel a lesser resistance as you glide through the water.
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