Swimming in Different Types of Water: A Beginner's Guide for New Swimmers

Swimming isn’t just for pools. People also swim in lakes, rivers, canals, oceans, and even special outdoor saltwater pools called lidos. Each kind of water feels different and has its own challenges. If you’re learning to swim, this guide will help you understand what to expect when you swim in different places.

Swimming Pools (Chlorinated Water)

Most people start swimming in a pool. Pools have clean, still water. They are treated with chlorine, a chemical that helps kill germs.

What it feels like:

  • The water is clear and still.

  • It’s usually warm or just cool enough.

  • You can see the bottom easily.

Good things:

  • Great for beginners. (Pools are calm and controlled, making them the best place to learn.)

  • Lifeguards are usually nearby. (They can help you if you get tired or need assistance.)

  • No plants, fish, or bugs. (You don’t have to worry about natural surprises while you swim.)

Things to watch out for:

  • Chlorine might sting your eyes or dry out your skin. (This can be uncomfortable if you swim a lot.)

  • Pools can get crowded. (It might be harder to swim or feel safe when many people are in the water.)

  • Some people are sensitive to the chemicals in the water. (You may feel itchy or sneezy if you react to chlorine.)


Freshwater: Lakes, Rivers, and Canals

Freshwater is water without salt. You find it in lakes, rivers, and canals. These are natural places to swim.

What it feels like:

  • The water may be cold. (Cold water can shock your body and make you breathe faster.)

  • The bottom might be sandy, muddy, or rocky. (This can feel strange or hurt your feet.)

  • The water is not always clear. (It may be hard to see where you’re going.)

Good things:

  • Great for cooling off on a hot day. (Natural water helps you feel refreshed.)

  • Natural and peaceful. (It can be quiet and relaxing in nature.)

  • Fun to explore. (You can find new places and see wildlife.)

Things to watch out for:

  • You might not see what’s under the water. (This can make it hard to avoid rocks or drop-offs.)

  • There could be plants, fish, or bugs. (These might surprise or scare you while swimming.)

  • Watch for slippery rocks or sudden deep spots. (These can cause falls or make swimming harder.)

  • Always check if it’s safe to swim. (Some water may be polluted or have strong currents.)

Saltwater: Seas and Oceans

Saltwater is found in seas and oceans. It tastes salty and often has waves.

What it feels like:

  • Salt may dry out your skin. (Too much salt can make your skin itchy.)

  • You float easier in saltwater. (This makes it easier to stay above water.)

  • Waves and currents are common. (They can push you around while swimming.)

Good things:

  • Saltwater can help your skin feel soft. (Many people like how it feels after swimming.)

  • Playing in waves can be fun. (It adds excitement to swimming.)

  • Many beaches have lifeguards. (This makes it safer to swim, even in big water.)

Things to watch out for:

  • Rip currents can be dangerous. (They can pull you away from the shore quickly.)

  • Waves can knock you over. (They might surprise you or make you fall.)

  • Sand can make the water cloudy. (This can make it hard to see.)

  • You might see sea creatures like jellyfish or crabs. (They could sting or pinch if you get too close.)

  • Saltwater can sting your eyes or cuts. (This can hurt and make it hard to keep swimming.)


Saltwater Lidos (Outdoor Saltwater Pools)

Lidos are outdoor swimming pools, and some are filled with saltwater. These give you a mix of pool safety and ocean feeling.

What it feels like:

  • Saltwater helps you float. (This makes swimming feel easier.)

  • The water can be cooler than indoor pools. (You may need time to adjust.)

Good things:

  • Cleaner and calmer than the ocean. (You get the saltwater feel without waves or sea creatures.)

  • Often have lifeguards and changing areas. (This makes swimming more convenient and safe.)

  • Great for practicing before trying the sea. (You can get used to saltwater in a safer space.)

Things to watch out for:

  • Still might sting your eyes or cuts. (Saltwater can still irritate sensitive areas.)

  • The bottom can be rough or slippery. (Walk carefully to avoid slipping.)

  • Sun exposure. (Being outside means you should wear sunscreen.)

How Each Water Type Affects You

Floating:

  • It’s easier to float in saltwater. (Saltwater is denser and helps you stay on top.)

  • You float less in pools and freshwater. (You may need to work harder to stay afloat.)

Temperature:

  • Pools are usually heated. (This makes swimming more comfortable.)

  • Lakes, rivers, oceans, and lidos can be cold. (Cold water can shock your body.)

  • Cold water can make it hard to move or breathe at first. (Your muscles may tighten up.)

Seeing underwater:

  • Pools are clear. (It’s easier to see where you are and find things.)

  • Lakes and rivers are usually cloudy. (You may not see the bottom or other swimmers.)

  • Oceans and lidos vary. (It depends on the weather, location, and how clean the water is.)

Water movement:

  • Pools and lidos don’t move much. (You can practice swimming without strong currents.)

  • Rivers flow. (The moving water can carry you along.)

  • Oceans have waves and tides. (These can push or pull you and make swimming harder.)

Safety Tips

In Pools:

  • Always follow pool rules. (Rules keep everyone safe.)

  • Don’t run near the pool. (You could slip and fall.)

  • Wear goggles if your eyes are sensitive. (This protects your eyes from chlorine.)

In Freshwater:

  • Check the area before getting in. (Look for rocks, deep spots, and other hazards.)

  • Never dive in if you don’t know how deep it is. (You could hit the bottom and get hurt.)

  • Be careful on slippery rocks. (It’s easy to fall and injure yourself.)

  • Don’t swim alone. (If something goes wrong, someone can help you.)

In Saltwater (Oceans and Seas):

  • Swim where lifeguards are. (They can help if you get into trouble.)

  • Learn about rip currents. (Knowing how to spot and escape them can save your life.)

  • Don’t turn your back to waves. (A wave could surprise you and knock you down.)

  • Rinse off after to wash off salt. (This helps protect your skin and eyes from irritation.)

In Saltwater Lidos:

  • Check the pool depth before jumping in. (Some lidos are deeper than they look.)

  • Watch your step on wet areas. (Surfaces can be slippery.)

  • Use sunscreen and stay hydrated. (You're outside and need to protect yourself from the sun.)

Final Thoughts

Swimming is fun no matter where you go. But you must always consider your safety first.

Pools are a great place to start. Lakes and rivers let you swim in nature, but can surprise you with some unique and challenging features. Oceans bring waves and adventure, but they can also be dangerous.

Saltwater lidos offer a unique mix of pool safety and ocean feel. Every type of water is different, it is important that you keep in mind your safety anytime you decide to dive in. 

Do your own research, ask locals about spots too dangerous to swim in or look out for signs whether swimming is allowed or not. The more educated we are about the places we swim in the more likely we will experience fun instead of a tragedy.