How To Swim Like A Pro

Steps

1. Step into the water and make sure it's not too deep for you. Remember to hold your breath and keep your head as steady as possible.

  Underwater View

2. After getting used to the water, grab on to the side of the pool and let your legs float up behind you. Start kicking your legs rapidly, pushing water up, down, and sideways. This will be easier if you put your face in the water. Always kick with your thigh muscles (the strongest muscles in your leg) without bending your knees. This is the most dynamic and best way to swim. Get used to the movement!

 Racing Swimmer

3. After you get used to the leg motion, Turn around to face the open water.

  Open Water

4. Slightly cupping your hands to sweep more water, bounce off the floor of the pool lightly. When you come back down to meet the water, sweep both of your arms from the front of your face to your side. Do this swiftly, altering the movement of each arm, and add the leg movement as practiced in step 2. This will get you to move faster and to stay on the surface of the water. TO BREATHE- In between strokes of your arms, turn your head sideways so your chin barely touches your shoulder. Here your nose should find enough air to breathe. DO NOT breathe by raising your head above water while swimming. This will stop all forward motion and you will sink.

  A Swimmer Breathing

TIPS AND WARNINGS

• If you get tired while swimming, DO NOT PANIC. Turn over so your back is on the water and relax while you steadily kick your legs or feet to move. If your legs start sinking, raise your arms above your head. Muscle bondage will make your legs float back up to the surface.
• Do long, centered, balanced strokes. Make your hands reach way out in front of you, and push your thigh down as your hand recoils from the stroke. Make sure all your movements are balanced- they should work together to bolt you through the water.
• Swim with a buddy.
• You can take swimming lessons at some public pools in your area.
• Swim in the pool that is perfect for you- temperature, deepness, etc.
• Remember to never go into deep waters if you do not know how to handle them yet. You can easily rest your feet on the floor of a shallow pool just in case you get frightened or exhausted.
• This is probably like the fourth time I've said this, but SWIM WITH A BUDDY.
• If you are skinny, you probably won't be able to float, after all, fat keeps you bouyant. If you are skinny try a lifejacket.
• Never give into underwater breathing contests. You might say it is shallow water, but it is very dangerous. If you are offered, say "No Thanks!"