Australia is a place of sun, sand, beaches. As an island nation, swimming is at the heart of Australian life
But some people don't grow up with the opportunity to swim. People born overseas, small landlocked towns, or for any number of reasons... After all, swimming is not a skill you’re born with. And for these people – getting into the water for the first time can be scary as an adult.
Many adults feel embarrassed to admit that they can’t swim (or can’t swim well), and they figure it’s too late to pick it up. But you’re never too old to learn a new skill! And as far as new skills go, swimming is one of the most important.
Here are the top four reasons to learn to swim as an adult (besides having lots of fun in the process!).
Prevent Drowning
Avoiding drowning is the key reason to learn how to swim.
At some point, everybody finds themselves around the water. Whether is hanging out near a friend's pool, taking a cruise, or having a BBQ near a river. And without knowing how to swim, all these scenarios put you at risk. It's not only a matter of your safety, but also for your kids and those around you.
In the past year, 291 drowned in Australia, with another 653 hospitalised. It's easy to think "oh, that would never happen to me!"... but it does happen. This is why you need water skills to stay safe.
To stay safe, we must swallow our pride and be brave. It's worth it in the end.
Be Social
Swimming is fun.
Unfortunately, if you've grown up without the skills, it's hard to join in. This could mean missing out on a beach holiday, a riverside camping trip, or a family pool day. And wild activities like canoeing and kayaking are off the table.
But it doesn't have to be this way. Swimming lessons are a great way to learn with people in the same position as you. You'll have the chance to build firm friendships, as you grow together.
It doesn’t take long to learn a few basic strokes to feel confident joining in on the fun. Allow yourself to get involved in all the action this summer, with the knowledge that you'll be safe.
Get Fit
Swimming is not only the perfect social addition to your calendar, it also helps keep you fit.
Swimming is an amazing form of exercise. While traditional exercises like running activate your legs, swimming activates your body. From your fingertips to your toes, get a full body workout!
Staying fit and healthy through swimming will help improve your joints and muscles. And that's not the only thing that will strengthen. Swimming helps improve neural pathways in the brain, making you smarter. Time to bust out those trivia books!
Swimming also releases endorphins in the body, which make you happier. And the low-impact nature of swimming makes it the perfect choice to reduce stress on your whole body. This includes your brain, mind, and thoughts! Take a dip and come home relaxed.
Many pro athletes turn to swimming to stay in shape when they’re recovering from an injury. If that's the case, think of what it could do for your health and well-being.
Face Your Fears
You hear it in TED Talks, read it in magazines... face your fears. Get out of your comfort zone, try something new, stretch your limits.
We grow the most when we try something new. And swimming will grow your body, your brain, and your emotions. You can fight the voice that says you can't do it.
Because swimming is a simple step by step process. If you can get your feet wet, you can get your body wet. If your body's wet, your face can get wet. Wet your face, and you’re ready to float. And once you can float, you're on your way to swimming.
Challenge yourself to learn a new skill. You'll inspire your friends, kids and family to conquer their fears. And you'll learn an important life skill in the process.
The benefits of learning to swim far outweighs the fear. You’ll be able to look back and be proud. And you'll be all set for a magical summer. Don't look back with regret – stay safe and sign up for adult classes today.