Over 50? These 9 Swimming Mistakes Are Aging Your Body Faster (Here’s How to Fix Them)
Like many of you, I found my passion in the water at a young age. As a competitive swimmer for 13 years, certified personal trainer, and swim instructor at PRO Club, I’ve dedicated my career to helping people of all ages embrace the power of swimming. Working primarily with adults in their 40s-50s who wanted to keep up with their children, decrease pain, and feel healthy and happy, I’ve witnessed firsthand how water can transform fitness routines. Whether you’re fearful of water or a seasoned athlete, these common swimming mistakes could be holding you back from experiencing the full benefits of this low-impact, full-body workout. Here’s how to fix them and protect your body for years to come.
1. Head Position: The Most Common Mistake
MISTAKE: Swimming with your head up is a natural instinct but causes body imbalance and unnecessary neck strain. Think of your spine as a plow through the water – looking forward creates pressure that can leave you tight and sore, or worse, in a compromising position.
FIX: Look down! Visualize tucking an apple under your chin or imagine flashlight beams from your eyes pointing at the pool bottom. Your goal is a neutral position for your neck – this will likely feel deeper than it is in reality, like you are swimming downhill.
2. Improper Breathing Head Position
MISTAKE: Not only does your head position matter when you are facing down in the water, but it also matters when you come up for a breath. Lifting your head to breathe disrupts momentum and fluid motion, leading to desperate breathing and quick burnout.
