Swim Tips For the Summer: Covid Edition

So we’re at the point where many people feel various ways about the pandemic. I am precautios but feel good about going outside without a mask. At this point, masks are an option, not a rule. Although this is a great feeling many people are still very worried about the virus, but I have already been vaccinated. I have a pretty good immune system so I’m ready to carry on like this whole thing never happened. Although the virus is a frightening thing for people, many people are feeling more comfortable if I come to their house and use their at-home pool.

In terms of how the swim scene is in Philadelphia public pools, they are still in need of lifeguards. If you are a lifeguard, I would look into it. The recreation centers are paying 15.00 dollars an hour which is pretty good. The recreation centers are supposed to be opening in early July. Unfortunately, many of these gems will not be opening to the public because we are still in the middle of a pandemic crisis.

Tips for Both Newbies and Veterans

This article is designed for those new to swimming. Every once and awhile I have a group of new swimmers that don’t have a ton of experience swimming. I try to give people the easiest way to correct their swimming form, so here are some details about swimming that i always tell my clients that seem to help them out:

!. You need to empty your lungs in order to get a fresh breath of air. So, blow out bubbles when your face is in the water and then when your face is out of the water, take a fresh breath of air.

2. Kicking is a tough skill that everyone should be able to master; it just takes practice to be able to do it efficiently. First, make sure you’re using your hip muscles to kick. Your legs should be relatively straight with only a minimal bend in the knee. The last important aspect is you should be breaking the surface with your feet and legs as you kick. Remember, there should always be white water coming from your feet.

3. Correct breathing is not just a turn of the head, but also a turn of the whole body. So I tell my clients that your shoulder should point to the sky and your hip needs to point to the sky; once you master that rotation you will establish more space to breathe. To see this in action, check out my freestyle drill video on this site.

4. Always bring a bottle of water to the pool!

5. The only thing you need to get better is yourself. i see many swimmers with a bag of equipment. Equipment is a great addition to any workout, but you can make improvements without purchasing any special equipment.