Overcome Your Fear of Learning to Swim

Swimming is not only fun, but a great form of exercise. Unfortunately, many people suffer from a fear of water or learning to swim.

Before you dive in

 * 1)  Pinpoint your fear. Figure out what exactly about swimming makes you afraid.
 * 2)  Use positive self-talk to allay your fear. For example, if you're afraid of drowning, remind yourself that learning to swim will actually prevent this. Plus, there will be a trained lifeguard to help you out if you have a problem.
 * 3) Set goals. For example, you may want to swim laps for exercise. Or learn to surf. Or simply enjoy your friend's backyard pool.

When you learn

 * 1) Get someone you know to agree to teach you some basic techniques. It's often more comforting to be with a friend.
 * 2)  Allow yourself to start slowly. Getting over your fear will take time, so be easy on yourself. However, set goals for your progress so that you do learn.
 * 3)  Reward yourself for facing up to your fear by incorporating fun into each lesson. You might also want to give yourself a reward for reaching goals-- for example, treat yourself to a half-hour of poolside reading after your first time swimming in the deep end.

Tips

 * Be honest about your fear of swimming. It's very common, and you might be surprised who else shares your fear.
 * Have company. It's less scary to learn if you have friends to encourage you.
 * Reassure yourself. Make a list of soothing affirmations, and repeat them in your head if you feel yourself getting nervous.

Related Tips and Steps

 * How to Swim
 * How to Swim Butterfly Stroke
 * How to Avoid Drowning
 * How to Tread Water