For those wanting to improve their swimming skills there are some excellent stroke improvement courses around, often run through community colleges at local pools. There are also a few courses run near the city, so it’s easy to attend before and after work. For those wanting to improve their swimming skills there are some excellent stroke improvement courses around, often run through community colleges at local pools. There are also a few courses run near the city, so it’s easy to attend before and after work.
Here are a couple of suggestions you may wish to pursue:
Eastern Suburbs
For people living in the eastern suburbs the City East Community College runs a couple of courses for adults of different levels. They are usually run at Waverly College pool and run for 30min. Cost is ~$15/session. You can also stay in the pool after the session and practice what you’ve been taught! They offer beginner, intermediate, stroke correction and squad sessions. For more info go to http://www.escc.nsw.edu.au/courses/health+and+fitness/swimming
Inner West
For those living in the inner west The Sydney Community College runs Stroke Correction courses at Leichhardt and Enfield swimming pools. For more info go to: www.sydneycommunitycollege.com.au/courses/sport/swimming.
City
For anyone in the city, I’ve seen people in lessons at Cook and Philip. Details here: www.cookandphillip.org.au/category.php?type=aquatics. There are also beginner and intermediate courses run by the Sydney Community College at this pool.
Gyms
Many gyms (that have pools!) also offer stroke correction classes – perhaps ask about what’s available next time you go to the gym.
Like any sport, swimming just needs practice – lots of base building, similar to when you start paddling. It’s an essential skill when you spend a lot of time on the water, and being confident in the water will only improve your confidence and enjoyment at sessions. It may also encourage you to extend your paddling further and try out a Balmoral Ocean session!
Wearing a PFD (personal floatation wwwice) is also an excellent option if you’re not so confident. Both Whitworths (marine store) and Blue Earth at Drummoyne stock a range of PFDs. Make sure you look for something that won’t rub your shoulders and/or neck (be careful what you wear underneath!) The staff will be able to help you out.
See the OC Coaches if you have any questions.