How to Swim Faster: 7 Simple Tips

If you have access to a pool or natural water, you might be wondering how to make the most of your time in the water. Whether your goal is to swim faster or simply improve your overall skills, these 7 easy tips can help you boost your speed and confidence in swimming!

1. Focus on Quality Over Quantity

Swimming more doesn’t always mean swimming faster. Good technique is key to increasing speed.

  • If you’re a beginner, consider taking lessons or recording videos of your swimming to spot areas for improvement.
  • Regularly review and refine your strokes to enhance your performance over time.

2. Swim More Often, Not Longer

Frequent, shorter swims are more beneficial than occasional long sessions. Swimming three times a week with moderate distances is better for improvement than two longer sessions.

  • Frequent practice helps your body adapt to the water and maintain proper form.
  • Shorter, consistent sessions can build endurance and skill better than infrequent long swims.

3. Keep Learning

Building your knowledge about swimming can lead to significant improvements.

  • Watch videos, read articles, or learn from trusted resources to understand proper techniques.
  • Observe experienced swimmers and apply their methods to your training.

4. Enjoy the Process

Loving the sport of swimming can make a big difference in your progress.

  • When you enjoy swimming, you’re more likely to stay motivated and committed to regular practice.
  • A positive attitude makes it easier to embrace challenges and keep improving.

5. Practice Basic Drills

Incorporating simple drills into your training can improve your balance, water awareness, and technique.

  • Although drills may feel awkward at first, regular practice will help you master them.
  • Examples include single-arm swimming or swimming with fists.

6. Strengthen Your Kick

A strong and steady kick is essential for swimming faster and maintaining balance.

  • Add kicking exercises to your training routine.
  • Focus on rhythmic and efficient kicks to boost your propulsion in the water.

7. Vary Your Training

Changing the intensity of your swims helps build speed and endurance.

  • Combine short-distance sprints with long-distance swims to improve both speed and stamina.
  • Test yourself by swimming different distances, like 50m and 800m, to identify areas for improvement.