Now I am quite a few months into my swimming lessons I felt it was a good time to sit down and reflect on my journey so far. There were a lot of ups and downs – but ultimately I feel that I am really getting there!

Baby steps…

My first hurdle was getting over my own mental block of actually getting into the water, overcoming my past experiences and fear of drowning. As an adult through talking with my instructor I came to the realisation that although my fear was reasonable, to and extent it was irrational! I swim in a pool where I can touch the bottom with my feet the whole way along, supported by a competitive swimming instructor and strong swimmers all around!

Confidence…

This took me a few lessons to get over actually walking from the changing room to poolside without my towel wrapped around me.
I soon came to realise that everyone in the pool was there to swim and not judge! Now I walk from the changing room to the pool side - no problem.

Face in…

My main issue at the beginning of the sessions was putting my face in the water. I could put my face in, but only up to the bottom of my goggles. My instructor had a chat with me and explained with only putting my mouth and nose in – these we the most vital parts to breathe! It was not logical not to put my whole face in!

Flag Goals…

My biggest success to date was my first swim to the 5 meter pool flags unaided back and front! A few months ago I struggled with the concept of being in a pool, let alone being able to actually swim a few meters confidently!

Still in Progress…

My current struggle is trying to sync arms, legs and breathing. I have never really been great at multi tasking and this is my biggest challenge yet!
Growing in confidence as an adult has finally allowed me to experience the freedom of the water! This makes me #SwimHappy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c0fleaZE7pE&feature=youtu.be