Choosing the Right Swimming Gear as a Beginner
Starting any new activity, like swimming, can be intimidating. Having the proper gear, however, can give beginners confidence and comfort in the pool. Selecting the right swimsuit, goggles, swim cap, and other accessories may seem complicated at first, but this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Swimsuits for Beginner Swimmers
Choosing the right swimsuit is a critical first step for beginning swimmers. Consider the following key factors when selecting your first swimsuit:
- Material - Polyester and nylon blends are chlorine-resistant, quick-drying, and retain their shape.
- Fit - Tighter fits create less drag, but go with personal comfort.
- Coverage - Racers or briefs provide the most mobility.
- Gender differences - Women generally prefer one-piece suits with core control or shelf bras.
Finding the Perfect Pair of Goggles
Goggles serve the important purposes of allowing you to see clearly underwater and protecting your eyes from irritation. For beginners, ideal goggles have the following qualities:
- Flexible gaskets that create a watertight seal around the eyes
- UV protection
- Anti-fog and scratch-resistant lenses
- Comfortable, adjustable headstraps
Test different styles and brands to find the best fit for your face and personal comfort.
Should You Wear a Swimming Cap?
Swim caps serve multiple functions that benefit beginners:
- Keeps hair out of your face and eyes
- Creates less resistance and drag
- Protects hair from chlorine damage
- Provides warmth in cooler water
Choose latex or silicone caps for competitive swimming. Fabric caps work for leisurely swimming.
Other Helpful Accessories
As a swimming novice, you may want to consider the following additional gear:
- Kickboard - Builds kick strength and body position
- Pull Buoy - Focuses arm stroke without kicking
- Fins - Improves ankle flexibility and kick power
- Paddles - Increases hand surface area for resistance
- Snorkel - Develops proper head position and breathing
Caring for Your Swimming Gear
Taking care of your swimming equipment properly maximizes its lifespan and effectiveness:
Swimsuit Care Tips
- Rinse suits with cold water after each use to remove most chlorine.
- Wash with a chlorine-removing detergent after several uses.
- Avoid using fabric softener which can break down spandex and latex.
- Line or flat dry only, avoiding direct heat.
Caring for Goggles
- Avoid rubbing the lenses to prevent scratching.
- Use an anti-fog spray before swimming to help with fogging.
- Rinse goggles with cold water after use.
- Store in a firmly sealed case out of direct sunlight.
Caring for Other Gear
- Rinse all gear with non-salt water after use.
- Allow to air dry before storage to prevent mold or mildew.
- Deflate inflatable gear before storage.
- Store out of direct sunlight whenever possible.
Getting Into the Pool as a Beginner
As an absolute beginner, its understandable to feel some hesitation about getting into the pool. Just remember millions have successfully learned to swim before you. With a patient, certified instructor, proper gear, and these simple first-timer tips, you'll be gliding through the water in no time!
Finding Swimming Lessons
Professional swimming lessons give beginners the safest entry into the sport with proper guidance on breathing, stroking, kicking, and pool safety from certified instructors. Options include:
- Local community/recreation centers
- Schools or universities
- YMCAs or athletic clubs
- Private country clubs
- Independent swim schools
Ask about experience with adult and beginner students when choosing where to enroll.
What to Expect in Your First Lessons
Most introductory swim classes focus on acclimating beginners to the water and building fundamental skills in a patient, encouraging manner. Common learning goals include:
- Entering/exiting water safely
- Submerging head fully
- Exhaling underwater
- Floating unassisted
- Streamlining body position
- Fundamentals of arm strokes and kicks
As skills improve, youll advance to swimming short distances unassisted. Good luck!
FAQs
What type of swimsuit is best for beginners?
Beginners generally do best with polyester or nylon blend swimsuits that provide comfort and flexibility while resisting chlorine and retaining shape over time. Racers, briefs, or simple one-piece suits allow the greatest mobility and are easy to put on.
Do I really need to wear a swim cap?
Swim caps are highly recommended to keep hair out of your face, reduce drag, protect hair from chlorine, and provide warmth. Choose latex or silicone caps for performance swimming or fabric for recreational swimming.
What goggle features should beginners look for?
Ideal beginner goggles have flexible gaskets for a watertight eye seal, UV protection, anti-fog and scratch-resistant lenses, as well as adjustable straps for a comfortable, customized fit. Test different brands and styles to find your perfect pair.
What kind of lessons work best for adult swimming beginners?
The safest entry for beginners is through professional swimming lessons at local community centers, schools, YMCAs, or independent swim schools. Look for instructors with experience teaching adult and beginner students in a supportive way.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
Add Comment