Learning To Swim At 30

I have been terrified of the water since I was a child and I really didn’t want to learn how to swim. After I had my son I knew that I wanted him to learn at an early age so he wouldn’t grow up fearing the water as I did.

I figured If I’m going to make him learn then I needed to learn too. Since he’s learning to swim he may grow to love it and I never want to be in a position where I can’t enjoy it with him or help him if I need to. So with that being said, I’ve signed up for swimming lessons at the local YMCA. I’ve vowed to take as many classes as I need until I am comfortable enough to jump in.

I had my very first swim lesson last week and it went well. I was a nervous wreck the day of and a few days before. Since I’ve never taken classes I wasn’t sure what to expect or what would be expected of me.

Initially, I was the only person in the adult class but my husband signed up to do it with me. I wasn’t sure if that was a good idea or not because we are super competitive and always joking around. It turns out that it was! He was supportive and showered me with encouragement. Having him there with me helped my nerves a lot because I know for a fact he wouldn’t let me drown. It was also helpful to have him there to tell me exactly what I needed to hear, whether it was support or redirection.

Myan’s swim class was right after ours and I wasn’t sure how he would do in the water. He seemed to like the beach and the pool on our cruise last year but that was the only time he’s been in the water (other than baths of course).

He did a great job in his first lesson! I’m so proud of him for getting in the water, following directions, and just for having a good time. The only “issue” I had was that he wanted me to let go so he could walk in the water. Try explaining to a toddler why he can’t walk on the bottom of the pool after he’s been able to walk everywhere else. Go ahead. I’ll wait.

We used pool noodles in class and that gave him some of the freedom in the water that he wanted. Initially, I was worried about him freaking out and never wanting to get in the pool again (like me). I wanted to take it slow but we just ripped the bandaid right off on the first day. He was fine with it and keeps saying he wants to go back.

Myan is very vocal and aware of what he does and doesn’t want to do (like most toddlers). 😂 I’m just happy that he loves it and it’s not a fight to get him to learn. I’m excited about the new adventures this could bring for our family and can’t wait to share the rest of our swim journey.

Do you know how to swim? If not are you willing to learn? It’s never too late!