Tag: water safety

Dive into the Sun: 4 Reasons to Sign Up for Outdoor Swim Lessons

Posted on by Rosalyn Whickum

With the sun shining bright, now is the perfect time to consider taking you or your child’s swim lessons to the great outdoors. Whether someone is just starting out or aiming to refine their skills, outdoor swim lessons offer a refreshing experience like no other. Let’s explore four reasons why diving into outdoor swim lessons can make a splash in your summer routine!

Natural Vitamin D Boost

Embrace the warmth of the sun and soak up its natural goodness during outdoor swim lessons. While indoor pools offer controlled conditions, nothing beats the feeling of sunlight on skin as you swim through the water. Basking in the sun stimulates the production of vitamin D, significant for bone health and overall well-being. So, while perfecting those swim strokes, you and your child can also absorb nature’s vitamin D factory.

Enhanced Spatial Awareness

Outdoor swimming introduces dynamic elements such as shifting sunlight and natural surroundings, enhancing spatial awareness. Navigating these conditions challenges swimmers to adapt and become more attuned to their environment, improving water safety and confidence. Whether adjusting strokes or gauging distances, outdoor swim lessons deepen the connection between body and surroundings.

Connection with Nature

Anyone can find tranquility in nature while practicing swimming skills outdoors. Surrounded by blue skies, fresh air, and the gentle rustle of trees, each session leaves people feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Outdoor swim lessons offer a welcome escape from the daily hustle, allowing youth and adults to focus fully on swim skills.

Community Connection

Forge bonds with fellow swimmers and instructors in the inviting atmosphere of outdoor swim lessons. Whether sharing tips, cheering each other on, or enjoying post-swim snacks, outdoor sessions foster camaraderie and belonging. Building relationships within the swimming community enhances motivation and overall enjoyment of the learning journey.

Experience the joys of outdoor swim lessons and unlock a world of benefits beyond the poolside. From vitamin D boosts to community connections, outdoor swimming offers a refreshing and rewarding experience for swimmers of all ages and levels. Don’t wait any longer—embrace the sun, dive into outdoor swim lessons, and make a splash in your summer routine.

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Six Tips to Keep in Mind for National Water Safety Month

Posted on Updated on by Rosalyn Whickum

Six Tips to Keep in Mind for National Water Safety Month

May is National Water Safety Month. When the weather starts to heat up, the pools, lakes, oceans, rivers and other bodies of water start calling! While swimming can be a very enjoyable activity this summer, it is important to remind all parents and caregivers of the importance of water safety. The YMCA of Greater Toledo is sharing these six tips on how children can stay safe in and around the water.

Tip # 1: Make sure children know to always ask permission before going in or near the water.

Teaching your children to be water smart is the first step in water safety – be sure they understand the importance of asking permission before going in or near the water.

Tip # 2: Never swim alone without a water watcher.

When children are swimming, make sure they are actively supervised at all times. Teach your children that they should only swim in locations where a lifeguard is on duty, or where a responsible adult agrees to watch the children in the water without distractions.

Tip # 3: Supervise your children whenever they’re in or near water.

Whether it’s bath time or taking a dip in a pool or waterfront, make sure your children are within arm’s reach at all times.

Tip # 4: Don’t engage in breath holding activities.

Both adults and children should not hold their breath for a prolonged amount of time while swimming, as this can be dangerous.

Tip # 5: Wear a life jacket.

Inexperienced or non-swimmers should always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket while in or around the water.

Tip # 6: Don’t jump in the water to save a friend who is struggling in deep water.

If an adult or child finds their friend in deep water unexpectedly, their natural reaction may be to jump in the water to try and save them. Even if they are a great swimmer, a panicked person will overpower them, pulling the rescuer under water. The Y’s Safety Around Water program teaches the “reach, throw, don’t go” concept of using a long object to reach for them, and pull them to safety. By using this technique, an adult or child can help their friend without compromising their own safety.