FAQ’s

Q. How long will it take me to learn to swim?

A. There can be no timescale because too many individual factors are involved, not least your determination to give it 100% and to practise as often as you can. In return, there will be enough weekly improvement to encourage you to continue and to emerge as a swimmer. It is not a race.

Q. When will I be able to swim in deep water?

A. When you are ready! First learn to float then to swim correctly in shallow water, initially on a held breath. Then it takes weeks or even months before the stroke is established well enough to add the rhythmic breathing. You cannot put the correct breathing into a poor stroke. Once the breathing is added to an established stroke then distance swimming is very quickly possible. After a few more weeks of distant swimming pupils generally feel strong enough and comfortable enough to swim over deep water. Sculling can then be added as well. But as you can see, it takes time. Remember, after a lifetime of not being able to swim, it is worth taking your time and getting things right. If you don`t, you could be risking your life.

Q. Why can`t I get the breathing into my stroke?

A. Almost always, it is because the stroke is not good enough.

Q. How can I add the breath to my stroke.

A. Use the "Freedom Breath" and correct any faults in your stroke first over repetitive short distances. This will consolidate the changes to your stroke and build up your fitness. Also practice the breathing separately walking along doing the arms only. You will soon be swimming higher in the water and should be able to add the breathing technique that you have been practising.

Q. What can I do about water going up my nose.

A. Learn the "Freedom Breath" adding the last extra inhalation up your nose.

Q. Can I keep my noseclip?

A. Throw it away and learn the "Freedom Breath" People look ridiculous wearing noseclips.

Q. At what age should I start taking my baby to swimming lessons?

A. Five years. Anything earlier invariably develops the paddle stroke and this is very difficult to unlearn later. Baby classes build false confidence. No under five will survive if they are then attracted to and fall into open water unsupervised. Baby pools are half full of wee and worse. Your bath and garden paddling pool are much safer, cheaper and healthier options until they reach the age of five. Then they are old enough to learn to swim correctly much more quickly and better than the paddlers.