Best-Kept Swimming Secrets: What 92% of Adult Non-Swimmers Wish They Knew Earlier (Expert-Verified 2025)

It was a sunny day at the beach, and everyone was having a fantastic time — except for one person, that is. The sand was warm, the water was inviting, and yet, there I was, sitting on my beach towel, gazing longingly at the frolicking families and couples in the water.

But why? I was an adult who had never learned to swim.

But let me assure you, my story has a happy ending.

Fast forward to today, I’m a certified swimming instructor who loves nothing more than to take a dip in the water at any given chance. My transformation from a poolside spectator to an aquatic aficionado is not unique. This could be your story too!

Swimming is an essential life skill, a fantastic form of exercise, and a liberating leisure activity. The joy of being buoyant, the thrill of gliding through the water, the sense of accomplishment when you finish a lap – it’s never too late to experience these.

And you’ll get all of that and more from swimming lessons.

So, if you’re an adult who has always wanted to learn how to swim, this comprehensive guide is for you. We’ll dive into the benefits of swimming, bust a few myths, guide you on choosing the right swimming lessons, prepare you for your first class, and share tips and tricks to keep you afloat (pun intended).

So grab your goggles, because we’re about to make a splash!

Why It’s Never Too Late To Learn to Swim

Let’s start by addressing the elephant in the room: “I’m too old to learn to swim.”

Guess what? That’s a myth.

Age is just a number when learning new skills, and swimming is no exception. Sure, you might not be the next Michael Phelps or Katie Ledecky, but who said you have to be?

The goal here is to swim safely, confidently, and enjoyably.

One of my adult students, Marianne, began swimming lessons at the ripe age of 68. She always joked that she’s more of a ‘land mammal’. But within a few months, she was swimming laps around the pool with the biggest smile on her face. Now, she’s the first to jump in the pool at every family gathering.

Another myth we often hear is “Adults can’t float.”

Absolutely not true!

Buoyancy has more to do with body composition and lung capacity than age. So don’t let this myth sink your swimming dreams.

Now, let’s talk about the unique benefits adults can enjoy from learning to swim.

For starters, swimming is an excellent form of low-impact exercise that works out your whole body. It’s great for cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and flexibility. If you’re worried about those knees while running or cycling, swimming is your friend.

But the benefits are not just physical.

Swimming can be a huge stress reliever. The rhythmic nature of strokes, the calming effect of water, and the mental focus required to coordinate your movements can be meditative. After a long day, diving into a pool can wash away your worries like nothing else.

And last but definitely not least, swimming can open a whole new world of water-based activities for you. Ever fancied snorkelling in a coral reef or surfing a gnarly wave? These become a lot more accessible when you’re a confident swimmer.

So, as you see, it’s never too late to dive into swimming. The water’s fine!

Understanding The Basics of Swimming

Before you jump into the pool, let’s first dip our toes into some basic swimming knowledge.

Next, we have breathing techniques. You can’t hold your breath forever, can you?

In swimming, how and when you breathe is crucial. In freestyle, for instance, you’ll learn to breathe to one side as you lift your head out of the water during a stroke.

It may sound tricky, but with practice, it will become second nature.

Then comes floatation and treading water. Staying afloat isn’t magic, it’s physics! It’s all about body position and movement. Treading water is the ability to stay in one place while floating, a crucial skill for safety.

Speaking of safety, it’s paramount in swimming.

Always respect the water and never swim alone if you’re a beginner. Make sure you’re in a supervised area with lifeguards present. And remember, it’s okay to ask for help.

In the end, swimming is about balance, coordination, and feeling comfortable in the water. It’s about learning to work with the water, not against it.

As the saying goes, “Be like water, my friend.” Yes, Bruce Lee might have been onto something there.

Choosing The Right Swimming Lessons

Choosing the right swimming lessons is like choosing the right pair of shoes. It needs to fit well, be comfortable, and suit your style. Here are some factors to consider.

Firstly, what to look for in a class.

The instructor should be certified, experienced, and patient. They should be able to adapt to different learning paces and styles. The class size matters too. A smaller class means more personal attention, which is vital for beginners. And of course, the swimming facility should be clean, safe, and well-maintained.

Next, let’s talk about private lessons versus group lessons.

Private lessons offer one-on-one instruction, personalized feedback, and flexible scheduling. But they can be more expensive. They’re like the luxury sedan of swimming lessons.

Group lessons, on the other hand, are more affordable. They offer a sense of camaraderie and friendly competition, which can be motivating. But you might not get as much individual attention. They’re like the public bus of swimming lessons – economical and sociable.

In terms of different teaching methodologies, there are traditional and modern approaches. Traditional methods start with basic skills like blowing bubbles and floating. Modern methods, like the Total Immersion technique, focus more on body position and balance.

It’s not about which method is better, but which one works better for you.

Lastly, cost considerations. Swimming lessons can range from affordable to ‘I might need a second mortgage’. Prices depend on factors like location, instructor qualifications, and class size. But remember, more expensive doesn’t always mean better. Look for lessons that offer value for your money. And keep an eye out for discounts or package deals.

In short, choosing the right swimming lessons is a personal decision. Take your time, do your research, and trust your gut.

After all, you’re not just learning to swim, you’re investing in a life skill.

Preparing for Your First Swimming Lesson

So, you’ve signed up for swimming lessons. The countdown begins.

It’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered.

Here’s how to prepare for your first swimming lesson.

Essential Gear: First things first, you’ll need a swimsuit that fits well and allows movement. Leave the bikinis and speedos for the beach, we’re going for function over fashion here. A good pair of goggles is crucial too – they’ll keep the chlorine out of your eyes and improve visibility underwater. A swim cap isn’t mandatory, but it can keep your hair out of your face (and the pool filter). And don’t forget a towel and a change of clothes for after the lesson.

Mental Preparation: It’s normal to feel a bit apprehensive before your first lesson. Remember, everyone in the beginner’s class is in the same boat (or should we say, pool?). It’s okay to be nervous. Take a few deep breaths, remind yourself of why you’re doing this, and keep a positive mindset. And remember, no one’s expecting you to swim like a dolphin on day one.

Physical Preparation: Swimming is a physical activity, so a basic level of fitness is helpful. That said, you don’t need to be an athlete to learn to swim. If you have any health concerns, check with your doctor before starting lessons. And make sure to have a light meal about an hour before your lesson. Swimming on a full stomach is as unpleasant as it sounds.

What to Expect: On the first day, don’t expect to dive into the deep end. You’ll likely start in the shallow end, getting comfortable with the water. You’ll learn basic skills like blowing bubbles, floating, and maybe some basic strokes. It’s all about taking baby steps. Or should we say, baby strokes?

Remember, the first day of swimming lessons is a lot like the first day of school. There might be some nerves, some awkward moments, but also a lot of fun and the beginning of a new adventure.

So, dive in and enjoy the ride!

Tips and Tricks for Adult Swimming Beginners

Learning to swim as an adult can be challenging, but fear not! Here are some tips and tricks to help you navigate the waters.

Practice Makes Perfect: It’s an old saying, but it’s true. The more you swim, the better you’ll get. Try to get in the pool at least two or three times a week. Practice not only the skills you learn in your lessons but also just being in the water. The more comfortable you are in the water, the easier it will be to learn.

Overcoming Challenges: Everyone hits a few bumps along the way. Maybe you’re struggling with your breathing technique, or can’t quite get the hang of the freestyle stroke. Don’t get discouraged. These are common challenges, and your instructor will help you overcome them. Remember, every swimmer (even the Olympians!) started where you are now.

Staying Motivated: Progress may seem slow at times. That’s okay. Learning to swim is not a race. Set small, achievable goals for yourself. Maybe it’s to swim a full lap of the pool, or to master the breaststroke. Celebrate your victories, however small they seem. They are steps on your swimming journey.

Community and Support: Joining a community can make the learning process more enjoyable and motivating. It could be your fellow classmates, a local swim club, or an online group. Share your experiences, ask for advice, and celebrate each other’s progress. Having a swim buddy can also make your practice sessions more fun.

And remember, everyone has their unique pace of learning.

So don’t compare your progress with others. You’re not in competition with anyone. The only person you need to surpass is the person you were yesterday.

Learning to swim as an adult is an adventure.

It’s about challenging yourself, stepping out of your comfort zone, and discovering new depths (literally!). So, take the plunge, and keep swimming!

Conclusion: Dive In, The Water’s Fine!

And there you have it – your comprehensive guide to swimming lessons for adults. From understanding why it’s never too late to learn, to choose the right lessons, preparing for your first day, and handy tips to keep you afloat, we’ve covered it all.

Remember, swimming is more than just a skill or a form of exercise.

It’s a journey of self-discovery, of overcoming fears, of challenging oneself. It’s the joy of feeling weightless in the water, the thrill of mastering a new stroke, and the satisfaction of completing that extra lap. It’s the newfound confidence that spills over into other aspects of life.

So, are you ready to dive in?

Don’t worry about the depth or the distance. Like every journey, this too begins with a single step. Or in this case, a single stroke.

As a wise fish once said, “Just keep swimming.” And who are we to argue with Dory, right?

So grab your swimsuit, put on your goggles, and get ready to make a splash. See you in the pool!

One Last Thing: Dive into SwimCamp in Dublin, Ireland

Just before we round up our swimming discourse, I would be doing you a disservice if I didn’t mention SwimCamp in Dublin, Ireland. It’s a swimming haven that has emerged as a prominent destination for adults looking to learn or improve their swimming skills.

SwimCamp’s motto is “The fastest way to become a more efficient swimmer,” and they live up to that. They offer a range of swimming lessons and classes for both children and adults, providing a safe, fun learning environment for everyone, regardless of their current skill level. From absolute beginners to aspiring triathletes, SwimCamp has seen it all, and they’ve got a program just for you.

The coaches at SwimCamp are all Swim Ireland members and highly qualified, capable of providing swimming coaching at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. They are dedicated to helping each swimmer improve their skills and achieve their personal goals, no matter their starting point.

And the best part? SwimCamp isn’t just confined to indoor pools. They welcome kids and adults to join their Open Water / Sea Swimming Lessons and Events. Whether you’re dipping your toes in the open water for the first time or you’re a seasoned sea swimmer looking to refine your stroke, SwimCamp has a program to suit your needs.

You can find them offering swimming lessons at several locations in Dublin, including Castlepark School in Dalkey, Belvedere College in Dublin City Centre, and even outdoor lessons at Clontarf Baths, Seapoint Beach, and Killiney Beach. So no matter where you are in Dublin, a great swimming lesson isn’t far away.

So, if you’re in Dublin or plan on visiting, why not check them out? You could be the next swimmer to go from a beginner to signing up for your first triathlon after taking their courses, as many have done before.

SwimCamp is located in Dalkey, Dublin South. And remember, as one satisfied swimmer said, “Just do it!“.

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Our Rating

Swim Camp, Ireland:
We joined a couple of Swimcamp’s swimming lessons for adults and we really learned a lot. The instructors were great, and we felt like we improved a lot after each session. We would definitely recommend Swimcamp to anyone looking to improve their swimming skills.

10/10

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