10 Most Common Questions Asked By Non-Swimmers And Beginners

Here are 10 of the most commonly asked questions by adults wanting to learn to swim but who haven't started yet:

  1. How do I overcome my fear of water, especially deep water, and how can I stay calm if I panic?

    Many adults experience significant fear and anxiety around water, often stemming from childhood experiences like near-drownings or being forced into water by their parents. The fear of not touching the bottom or simply sinking can be a major mental block. I describe the fear of water as a "wild beast" to tame and acknowledge that the dread of water never fully disappears. Learning to control panic instincts and relax is crucial for comfort and safety.

  2. Am I too old to learn to swim?

    Many adults, even in their 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s, or 80s, feel ashamed or embarrassed about not knowing how to swim. However, you are never too old to learn to swim, and adults often approach learning with focus and determination. I learned at age 32, and believe it’s never too late.

  3. How long will it take me to learn to swim properly, including floating in deep water?

    This is a very common concern, and the answer varies greatly depending on individual factors like prior comfort with water and consistency of practice. It can take anywhere from a few months to several years to master strokes and feel truly comfortable over longer distances. For example, one person took a month to swim 25 metres, three months for 50 metres, and six months for a mile. However, basic safety skills like floating can be learned much faster, sometimes even in a single day.

  4. How do I breathe without swallowing water or feeling out of breath quickly?

    Breathing is often cited as the most significant hurdle for adult beginners. Learning to exhale steadily underwater, preferably through the nose, and take quick, controlled breaths above the surface is fundamental to comfortable swimming and overcoming the "caveman instinct" to gasp for air. Many people report extreme discomfort or pain from water going up their nose, which can ruin their entire swimming experience.

  5. Can I float, especially if my legs tend to sink, or if I'm not naturally buoyant?

    Many new swimmers worry about their ability to float. While body composition can affect natural buoyancy (fat generally floats better than muscle), everyone can learn to float by relaxing, keeping lungs full of air, and maintaining proper body alignment, often by tilting the head back and pushing the hips up.

  6. What's the best or easiest stroke for a beginner to learn first?

    While many beginners want to learn front crawl (freestyle), elementary breaststroke is often recommended as the easiest first stroke. It allows swimmers to keep their head above water if needed, has simple coordination, and provides a natural breathing rhythm, which builds confidence and offers a safe resting position.

  7. How do I overcome embarrassment or self-consciousness about my body or ability in a swimsuit at a public pool?

    Feeling uncomfortable in a swimsuit, or insecure about one's appearance or lack of swimming ability, is a significant barrier for many adults. It's important to remember that all swimmers wear swimsuits, and the focus should be on making an effort to learn a new skill and improve health. Choosing less busy times or more modest swimwear can help ease fears, and it's recommended to focus on enjoyment rather than self-imposed pressure.

  8. How do I choose the right pool or environment to learn in, especially if I'm nervous?

    Learning in a supportive and comfortable environment is crucial. Large, competitive Olympic-sized pools can be intimidating for beginners. Smaller, warmer hotel or gym pools with shallow water areas are often recommended as they are quieter, provide a more relaxed atmosphere, and allow learners to stand up easily for breaks. Checking pool depths and amenities in advance can also reduce nervous energy.

  9. Do I need a swimming instructor, or can I learn on my own using online resources?

    While it's possible to learn the basics and improve using online tutorials, especially in shallow water, a swimming teacher can significantly speed up the process and correct errors. For those with significant fear or past trauma, a reputable swim school and an empathetic, qualified instructor are highly recommended to build trust and provide essential feedback. Some instructors recommend a more "play-based approach" for water comfort rather than rigid stroke drills, especially for fearful learners.

  10. How do I deal with chlorine getting into my nose and ears, or other uncomfortable physical sensations in the water?

    Water getting into the nose or ears, dry skin, tight goggle marks, and muscle soreness are common physical realities of learning to swim. Exhaling gently through the nose underwater can prevent water from entering, and nose clips can also be used. Accepting these minor discomforts and focusing on proper technique and relaxation helps to overcome them.