Tips for If Your Child Wants to Swim Competitively

Get Accustomed to Early Practice Times

Whenever you talk to someone who has been swimming competitively, you will most likely hear about the dreaded early morning workout sessions. As with any activity that involves getting out of bed much earlier than your counterparts, it is essential to prepare as much as you can the night before, such as packing your lunch and laying out everything you will need to take out the door with you. Additionally, your child may have a difficult time not engaging with electronic devices such as their cell phone before going to bed. If necessary, make sure to set a time for devices to be turned off so they do not interfere with sleep that is crucial for waking early and staying energized throughout the day.

Consider an In-Ground Pool

To avoid having to rely on a swim club or the public pool, it may be a good option to think about a permanent option in your backyard. An in-ground pool has a myriad of benefits, including providing entertainment and a way to cool off for your family during hot weather, as well as an at-home environment for your child to train. Although they can sometimes be expensive, many pool financing companies exist in order to make this undertaking much more affordable for potential clients. This way, you can make a down payment and make monthly payments from there until the pool is paid off.

Other Forms of Exercise

Jumping in the pool provides a great full body workout without impact, which is one of the reasons why swimming is a popular choice for cardio, but there are many other exercises that can help swimmers perform better in the pool. When your child goes to the gym, it may be a good idea to consult with a personal trainer who is knowledgeable about the best workouts for muscle groups that are used the most when swimming. Regular use of a pull up bar and weight machines are good anaerobic exercise options that will develop different muscle groups. Make sure your child is getting plenty of beneficial exercise outside of the pool.

Invest in a Swim Club Membership

Sometimes joining a club may be the best option if your child wants to swim competitively, especially if they are not getting enough from their school swim team. A club membership can provide a great environment with athletes as serious as your child, as well as the help of professional swimming coaches who can improve technique and swimming times. A club also has vital connections for professional athletes and college scouts, for those who are looking to take their swimming career past high school and possibly into the professional or Olympic track.

Look Into Homeschooling

Many student athletes who are serious about their commitment to the sport have transitioned to homeschooling to fulfill their academic work while primarily focusing on their sport. The primary benefit that is most important with homeschooling is that it allows a flexible schedule, which can make time for as many practices as needed. Competitions are also not an issue, as you will not have to take your child out of school if they are completing their requirements on their own time. This can also lift weight off of your shoulders and allow you to complete tasks rather than worrying about your child being successful academically and also in their sport.

Swimming is a great option for competitive sports for your child. With these tips, you can explore your options and see if swimming is the best option for your child's needs, as well as those of your family.