Somewhere, somehow, on the webosphere, I came across the Swimfit class which launched in this New Year at Nuffield Health Clubs. I’m currently taking swimming lessons once per week but to progress faster I need to get in the pool another 1-3x per week and Swimfit seemed like a perfect option!
“Each class provides an alternative way to work out, improve fitness, reach targets and train for personal challenges in a social environment. Guided by ASA trained, fully qualified instructor, Swimfit offers a structured workout.
It provides a mixture of different routines, strokes, speeds and lengths to encourage a more varied and challenging workout than traditional lane-swimming. With various accompanying training aids and challenges, there is something to suit all abilities and interests.
Swimmers can work out and improve at their own pace with support at every level.” nuffieldhealth.com
So I arrive at the City branch at 7am for my 730am class, fuelled by an “almond milkshake” smoothie (recipe from Honestly Healthy). Feeling a little under the weather too, I had considered staying in bed, but I’m working on integrity this month. Staff at reception were great and got me fully clued up (directions to the changing rooms, how to use the lockers, where the pool was, which pool, who the instructor would be).
Keen as ever, I’m by the pool ten minutes early with the realisation that I actually have no idea what I’m in for. I did get to have a quick chat with Ryan, our Instructor, who explained to me how the session normally works. 730am on the dot and it was straight into the pool (considerably warmer than the pool I take my lessons in). At this point, I was the only person in attendance so Ryan asked to see both my breaststroke and front crawl – 2 lengths of each.
Before I knew it, he had me practising my front crawl kick (using a kick board), front crawl arms (using a pull buoy), breaststroke timing (pull, glide, kick) then onto breathing technique. During my recovery periods, I learned a little about Ryan too – a triathlete – which means he has an understanding of my journey. Ryan also gave me some advice for outside of the pool – to work on upper body strength in the gym, core strength and hip flexor flexibility (something I also got told by Alastair (Physio) from Pure Sports Med).
We finished off the 45 minute session with a little backstroke (legs only). I don’t remember ever having learnt / done backstroke in my life! Considering that one month ago, I had never attempted front crawl I’m pretty proud of the progress I am making. I’m so looking forward to completing my triathlon swim – just the thought of that motivates me to keep pushing.
I’m so glad to know there are resources out there for adults learning to swim or looking to improve their technique.
Would you class yourself as a swimmer?!
Elle ๐
p.s a huge thanks to Nuffield Health for letting me gate crash their class! I was not paid for this review, nor even asked to share about this class! It’s all for my own benefit ๐ and to share with you!
This class sounds fab and it also sounds like you're making SO much progress with your swimming lessons.My lessons are going well but I don't feel like I'm progressing as much as I should be and still haven't got my breathing technique right – which in turn is stopping me from being able to swim a full length yet. Frustrating, but I'm sure we'll all get there in the end! :)Laura | laurafat2fit.blogspot.co.uk
I am in exactly the same place Laura! …I'm waiting for the breathing to just click! I felt I made a bit of progress with it with two consecutive days in the pool so I know I need to spend more time practicing (hence why I took myself off to this class). I'm positive we will get though! And when we do, we'll be so proud ๐ x
Maybe it's just because I'm taking lessons myself but 2015 seems to be a big year for adult swimming. That class sounds fab. The teacher can make or break these things so really pleased you've got a good'un ๐
It does feel like that! I don't remember seeing any resources in the past but maybe I was just not looking?! It's such an accessible "sport" in the sense that it's not harsh on your body (impact wise) but the benefits are amazing! I'm looking forward to swimming before a skill for life! Beach / Pool holidays will never be the same! ๐