How to learn swimming just by myself? ?

Question

I am ashamed to say that I am a coward who gets hydrophobic everytime when I am in the pool. After watching Michael Phelps made history, I am determined to conquer the fear and learn how to swim----all by myself. Therefore, two questions I have for you----how to conquer the fear in the water, and how to actually able to master swimming basics just by myself with no one teaching me?

Answer 1

I personally would not advise anyone teach themself to swim, especially if they have a fear of water. You may have a difficult time and find that you additionally traumatize yourself when you do.

When you are scared, the body's muscles tend to tense up and you end up sinking. You seriously could drown yourself without supervision.

I recommend getting professional lessons, either with a class (trust me, you're not the only one, many people there will also be conquering their fears) or, better yet, a private instructor. Don't be ashamed to be honest and tell them your issues--it is very, very common, and a good instructor knows how to handle your situation.

Until then, if you want to get more comfortable in the water, just hang out at the pool and practice feeling relaxed. You can do this by floating on your back, or using a water jog belt, or a kick board.

Good luck.

Answer 2

WOW!!  Double whammy!!  Tackle one thing at a time, I suggest starting with your fear of water.  Try to discover EXACTLY what it is you fear about that water, you may need professional help with this.  Once you are over your fear of water, enrol in private swimming lessons and watch swimming every opportunity you get.  If you truly do want to do it ALL on your own, it will take much longer and you likely will not develop your swimming strokes properly.

Answer 3

First of all, you should not be ashamed of anything you fear, may people have phobias-including myself!

You have to understand why you have this fear in the first place. Then I would take baby steps.

Is there a public pool anywhere near where you live?

A lot of adult -learn to swim classes are available at these places or maybe a local Y.M.C.A. Explain to the instructor the fear of water which you have and start out gradually. Most of these people are professionals and will understand, and the group of people in the class are in the same situations you are, so therefore no embarrassments.

Do you take bathes or showers? Have you ever been in a pool and just walked around the edges of it holding onto the sides?

If you can not get the help you need in an adult learn to swim class, you may need to also seek therapy to conquer the phobia which you have before you begin to conquer the fear. Good luck to you