Beating Nervousness
A fear of water can hold many people back from learning to swim. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
If you are nervous of getting in the pool don’t worry, you’re not alone and help is at hand.
Most pools offer adult classes in a friendly and supportive environment and you’ll meet plenty of people going through the same experience as you.
- So go our Pool Finder and search for pools near you offering ASA Adult Swimming Lessons
Quick tips for helping boost confidence
- Start by getting your feet wet and try to gradually get deeper into the water
- When you can stand in water deep enough learn to hold your breath under the water and breathe out into the water. Blow bubbles!
- Hold the side and practise kicking with your body stretched out
- Don't feel rushed to make progress
- Build your core strength. Swimming uses all muscles in your body and strong core will help with confidence. Let Olympian Fran Halsall show you some exercises to follow in our British Gas Swimfit zone.
You are not alone
Comedian Frank Skinner was 55 when he decided to face his ultimate fear and learn to swim for the Big Splash Mile For Sport Relief. He said: "I really threw myself in at the deep end and faced one of my biggest phobias, swimming, by completing a 25 metre width. It felt great to challenge myself."
- Read more personal stories from some of the people who beat their nervousness and learned to swim.
