SELF PRACTICE
A few tips to prepare for your first time at a public pool;
for nervous or unsure adults
Choosing a pool
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Click here to find a pool near you.
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Click here for a list of 5 Star locations (these pools have passed a rigorous 40 point aquatic safety check and demonstrate a strong commitment to aquatic safety standards).
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Research pool dimensions (length and depths). A 50m long pool is Olympic size; you may wish to try a 25m long pool first.
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Research pool temperature (every pool centre should know this - don't be afraid to ask if you're concerned you might feel cold).
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Research the best time to go: find out the class schedule to avoid busy times/kids, or call to ask staff when it's quiet.
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Research if there are lifeguards on duty, if you're feeling nervous about going to the pool alone.
What to pack (aside from your swimming costume, towel & toiletries)
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Bottle of water. Learning how to swim is thirsty work - even if you think you've drunk enough of the pool water by accident! Keeping hydrated is also important to avoid muscle cramps.
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Pair of thongs (ideally with good grip) to wear before entry and after exit from the pool itself, and to shower in.
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Spare change (if the changing room lockers are coin operated).
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Sun protection (sunscreen, rash shirt, etc) if attending an outdoor pool.
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A change of clothes, particularly important in cooler weather.
Before entering the pool
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Familiarise yourself with where the changing rooms and toilets are.
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Be aware of the pool rules; these will be signposted.
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Introduce yourself to the staff/lifeguards. They can help to answer any questions and guide you to the safest areas to swim.
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Check the pool depths (which will be clearly sign posted) so you know where you can and cannot stand. Know your limitations; go only where you feel confident/capable. Note reference points to where the pool gets deeper.
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Check the lane signage (for lap swimming there are usually fast/medium/slow lanes). There may also be a designated walking lane.
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Be aware of different entry points (e.g. ladders/ramps/stairs) and understand how to use them.
After entering the pool
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It's easier to swim/float when you relax!
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Practise floating in the unfamiliar water.
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Set yourself achievable goals! It's better to swim a short distance with good technique than a whole lap with bad!
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Swimming on your front: the black line at the bottom helps you to swim straight and also keep your head down. When the line forms a 'T' shape, it indicates you're close to the pool wall.
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Swimming on your back: the flags hung over the pool indicate you're 5 metres from the pool wall.
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Treading water: practise this where you feel comfortable, however you need to be deep enough to kick properly!
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Don't be shy to use flotation aids; even triathletes train with them!