Swimfit at Nuffield Health

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 🙂 

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 😉 and to share with you!