10 Lessons from Swimming Every Day for a Month

My local triathlon club has a yearly challenge to swim every day between Thanksgiving and Christmas. I was tentative to sign up, but after completing every day (and over 50,000 meters!) I am so glad I did. For beginners, especially those training in triathlon without a notable swimming background, swimming every day for a month can be a challenge, but a rewarding experience. Here are ten things I learned from swimming every day for a month.

1. Improved technique:

Swimming every day provides more opportunities to practice and improve your stroke technique. These improvements will result in increased efficiency and quicker times in the pool or open water. By focusing on proper body position, arm and leg movement, and breathing, you can improve your stroke and swim more smoothly.

2. Increased endurance:

Swimming laps for longer periods of time can increase endurance and stamina. Your body will become more efficient at using oxygen and handling the physical demands of swimming as you swim longer distances and intervals. This is especially useful for triathlon as it not only allows us to perform better in the swim portion, but leaves us with more energy for the rest of the race.

3. Skincare routine necessities:

I found this out the hard way! Swimming every day can be hard on your skin, especially if you use a chlorine-treated pool. It is critical to develop a skincare routine that protects and nourishes your skin. Use a swim cap to protect your hair, rinse off with fresh water after swimming, and use moisturizing products to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.

4. Better breath control:

Swimming requires consistent and controlled breathing, and daily practice can help you improve your ability to control your breathing in the water. This is especially important in open water, where you may need to take short, sharp breaths between waves or chop. By swimming every day, breathing and breath control became much more natural and I feel better equipped to perform and feel comfortable on race day.

5. Greater overall fitness:

Swimming is a full-body workout that can help you improve your strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness. Swimming on a daily basis can make you feel stronger and more capable in your other workouts and daily activities. I noticed great improvements in general flexibility and cardio after these 30 days.

6. Greater body awareness:

Swimming you to be aware of your body's position and movement in the water. Daily practice can help you develop a better understanding of your body's movement in the water. This is especially useful in open water, where you must be aware of your surroundings and navigate the water.

7. Confidence in the water:

Swimming can be intimidating for some beginners, but regular practice can help you feel comfortable and gain confidence in the water. Your fear and anxiety may dissipate as you gain proficiency and experience in the water, and you may begin to enjoy swimming more. My enjoyment of swimming is definitely at an all-time high.

8. Better sleep:

Swimming is a great way to relax and destress after the work day. Physical activity and mental focus can assist you in sleeping better at night and swimming is a great activity for this as it is a quiet place to unwind. I found that swimming in the evening helped me get to sleep easier.

9. Improved mental health:

Swimming can help relieve stress and improve overall mental health and well-being. Swimming's physical activity and mental focus can help reduce stress and improve mood. As I gained confidence and comfort in the pool, it has began to feel almost like meditation.

10. Fun and enjoyment:

Swimming can be a fun and productive activity, and regular practice can help you discover the joy of being in the water. Before this challenge, getting myself into the pool was a constant mental battle. Now, I look forward to each session and I enjoy swimming more than ever before.

Swimming every day for a month can be a demanding but gratifying experience that can help you develop your technique, endurance, and general health and offer both physical and mental advantages. Taking part in this challenge was a fun and enjoyable way to practice swimming - and to keep myself in swimming form for the triathlon off-season.