Swimming (so far)

We have now had three swimming lessons. We've also tried to go to the pool once more each week to practice.

I was getting a little discouraged until last night's lesson (the third one). The first stroke they taught me was the Front Crawl (or Freestyle). I could get the movements down, but I am having such a hard time getting the breathing down. I either suck in water, can't breathe in when I'm supposed to, or I just hold my breath the whole time. I suppose it hasn't helped that I've had a head cold. Still...

Last night we worked on the Breaststroke though, and that was much better. It wore me the heck out, but at least I can get the breathing rhythm down. I actually swam one who length of the pool without stopping (twice)! Even though it's only 25 yards, it was far better than I'd been able to do up to that point.

Here are the strokes we've learned so far:

• FRONT CRAWL/FREESTYLE - I want to do this so bad.
• ELEMENTARY BACKSTROKE - easy peasy. I like this one. It's a good energy conserver.
• SIDESTROKE - I haven't quite got the hang of this yet, but haven't worked on it much.
• BREASTSTROKE - my favorite so far, but it really works the legs and arms.

Next week I am supposed to learn the Backstroke.

I also found this quite helpful post with an overview of common swimming strokes (https://www.enjoy-swimming.com/swimming-strokes.html). It was nice to watch the videos and simply see how it's supposed to be done.

I admit I am an ignorant swimmer. I've just not been around it much. I still can't see myself going and swimming laps, but I can understand why it is such good exercise. And... it may be one of my only exercise options at some point.

My instructor said when he lap swims he does the breaststroke down and the backstroke back. Back and forth. I could maybe do that. Though I still want to try to learn the Front Crawl/Freestyle better. That's supposed to be the most efficient and fastest. If I could just get the breathing part down...

Anyway, I think we have four lessons left. Since the first night we have been the only two pupils, so we each have our own private instructor. Jane has a youngish girl (like 19), and I have a guy about my age. It's also weird that there is no one else in the pool during lessons - other than a lifeguard. So, it's a little awkward at times, but kind of nice. I'm glad we are doing it.