How to Swim Better in 2015

It’s that time of year again when people start thinking about their New Year’s Resolutions.
While swimming across the Atlantic might sound like the coolest thing ever, it’s probably a good idea to set a more realistic goal, like becoming a better swimmer. So, grab your Underwater Audio Waterproof iPod Shuffle (heaven knows your going to need it) and get ready to swim!
Here are five ways to get the ball rolling. Let’s swim better this year!
 

Focus on Nutrition

You know what I’m about to say. If you want to see better results in the pool, you’ve got to cut out sugar. It’s the cold hard truth—sugar slows you down and creates weight gain.
Make 2015 the year you say goodbye to sugary sodas and sweets. If you have to drink a Coke now and then, it’s ok. But limit your intake to once a week or less.
Muscles need protein to stay strong & get leaner. The best protein sources include lean meats such as chicken, turkey, and salmon. Egg whites, beans, spinach, and broccoli are also excellent choices. And the more vegetables you eat, the better.
 

Improve Your Form

It’s hard to know what you look like when you’re swimming unless someone gets you on video.
But one way to know if your form is good is if there’s minimal splashing. Strokes need to be smooth in order to be efficient.
Learning how to do a flip turn at the end of the pool will help, too. A good turn will help you get into a good rhythm so you don’t have to stop swimming after each length. There are plenty of YouTube videos with workouts and tips to improve form, so be sure to check it out.
 

Improve Your Speed

If you want to see physical results from swimming, you have to challenge yourself. That means kicking it up a notch in the pool and trying to swim a little faster.
But how? This is where proper form and technique comes in.
You must be streamlined, with arms entering the water without too much drag, and kicking your legs from the hip (not the ankle). Strong core muscles help you keep your balance.
 

Find a Swim Buddy

Studies show that people who exercise with a friend are more likely to stick to their routine and get better results. After all, it’s easy to find an excuse when you’re alone, but you don’t want to cancel plans with a friend.
So, start scheduling your workouts with a swimmer friend, or find a friend who’s expressed interest in exercising more, and bring him/her to the pool with you.
Chances are you’ll have more fun, and will get better results.
 

Don’t Compare Yourself

 

One of the most important things about goal setting is learning to not compare yourself to others who have the same goal and might be more successful.
It’s easy to feel like a failure or feel bad about yourself if you do, so just don’t! Everyone is different and some people have more natural ability than others.
Remember your own natural strengths and take pride in them. You’re a unique individual with a lot to offer!
 

Your Tips

Do you have any tips on how to become a better swimmer?
Share in the comments below! We love hearing from you.