Swim Basics WHETHER YOU ARE A BEGINNER OR AN ADVANCED SWIMMER SOME FUNDAMENTALS SHOULD BE UNDERSTOOD ABOUT WATER SAFETY
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he French government has mandated that children must learn about swimming and pool safety whilst at school. Some even qualify as lifeguards whilst studying. We all know that swimming is a life skill and as a parent it is comforting to know that the little ones can float and understand about water safety, especially when on holiday or being anywhere near water. The World Health Organisation states that at least 3 people die every hour due to drowning, most being children. Rules It is worth knowing that in France it is mandatory at swimming establishments to be correctly dressed. Tight fitting swimming trunks or the even tighter fitting streamlined trunks can be seen at most pools. Swimming hats are also sometimes mandatory and pool staff are quick to ensure you all follow the rules. Swimming pools Most pools have informative websites which show the pool timetables; be sure to check if the schools are in or out as programmes do change over the holiday periods. Most pools will have a number of lanes for swimmers to train so be careful you don’t jump into a swim club’s lane by accident. Etiquette is generally up one side
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and down the other within the lane. Make sure you take time to see what swimmers are doing so you can blend in and be safe. Don’t be surprised if somebody joins in the lane and completely destroys the routine. The most important thing is to keep looking and stay aware. Benefits Swimming has many benefits and shouldn’t be underestimated as a form of exercise: − Low impact cardio exercise, good for recovery when rehabilitating after injury - water supports up to 90% of the body’s weight. − Helps maintain healthy weight − Helps strengthen heart and lungs − Strengthens endurance
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− It’s an exercise that the whole family can join in with no matter what level.
Kit and equipment – There are many products that swimmers use to get the most from their training. Some common items which Don’t be surprised if you may see at the pool are somebody joins in the listed below and I have added lane and completely a brief explanation to help destroys the routine you understand their purpose:
− Boosts mood − Reduces stress and can contribute to better sleep − Works all muscle groups and gives the swimmer an all-over body workout − Burns calories
By David Z immer
David is a British Triathlon Level 3 triathlon coach, Swim England swim teacher, life coach and mentor. Developing people is what makes him tick and he gets immense pleasure in seeing others succeed
Noodle - Adds buoyancy and supports you in the water Pull buoy – Generally positioned between the legs (groin) and helps maintain a streamlined position. It isolates the legs so the swimmer can focus on the top half of the body to perfect the stroke.
