Tips for More Effective Swimming 

Swimming is an activity that’s both enjoyable and healthy. It’s a low-impact aerobic exercise that promotes circulation and cardiovascular health. Because swimming puts very little stress on the joints—unlike other types of exercises, such as running and weight training—it’s a great choice for those with degenerative joint conditions such as arthritis. Whether you swim in a community pool or a custom outdoor pool in your San Diego backyard, here are some things you can do to swim more effectively and further enhance the benefits of this form of exercise.

Enhance Your Technique with Proper Body Alignment

To swim more effectively, focus on proper body alignment and a streamlined form. Position your body in a straight line, keeping your head in a neutral position. If your body deviates from a horizontal position too much or you lift your head too high, this can create drag, which will slow you down while you’re in the water. In addition, use your abdominal muscles to support your body while fully extending your arms with each stroke. These strategic techniques reduce water resistance so you can effortlessly glide through the water.

Use Controlled Strokes

Improving your swimming efficiency also involves the consistent use of controlled arm strokes. Instead of relying solely on your strength, focus more on precision and control of your arm movements. Making sure your arm strokes are deliberate and smooth and that your arms extend fully to maximize your propulsion will help you conserve energy while ensuring a more efficient swimming experience. It can take practice to synchronize your movements and strokes, but consistent practice will optimize your technique and performance.

Focus on Optimal Breathing Patterns

Enhance your swimming effectiveness with an optimal pattern of breathing that correlates with your arm strokes. Coordinating your breathing with your strokes helps you maintain a steady rhythm while in the water. When you inhale through your mouth during the recovery phase of your arm stroke and then breathe out smoothly through your nose when your face is submerged underwater, this provides a steady oxygen supply. It also facilitates proper body rotation while promoting better coordination.

Practice Often

Consistent practice is essential for swimming more effectively. Focusing on proper technique related to your arm movements, body position, and breathing helps your body adapt and perfect its movements. You should also set realistic goals for yourself, track and monitor your progress, and take pride in your accomplishments. 

If you feel you need professional guidance in your quest to become a more efficient swimmer, consider signing up for swimming lessons at your local community park district or health club. Lessons are available for all levels of swimming experience, from beginners to experienced swimmers who simply need a few pointers to further optimize their skills. Your hard work will pay off when you start seeing gradual improvements in your swimming technique and efficiency, which will lead to a more favorable experience in the water.

If you’re ready to build a pool of your own so you can enjoy the benefits of swimming, reach out to the experienced professionals at San Diego Pools. We’re a premier San Diego pool builder, and our pool design and construction experts are dedicated to building the pool that’s right for your family and providing you with the highest-quality service in the industry. Give us a call today.