Welcome to Coach Kegan's space, where we're diving into the importance of swimming for everyone. This blog post will cover why swimming is a super important life skill, stress how grown-ups should keep an eye on kids near water (yes, even kids who can swim), and encourage those who can't swim yet to give swimming lessons a go.
Let's learn more about the importance of swimming competently, focusing on safety and confidence in the water.
#1 Why Swimming is a Must
Safety first
Drowning is a serious concern. In the journal article "A South African Epidemiological Study of Fatal Drowning: 2016-2021"*, the authors report an average of 1477 drownings per year in South Africa for the 6-years 2016 to 2021. The majority of these (89.53%) occurred in fresh water, pools, or the ocean.
Knowing how to swim, float and tread water, can be a real lifesaver. These skills are crucial for people of all ages and will empower you to enjoy swimming while reducing the risk of accidents.
Boost confidence
Learning to swim makes you feel more confident and comfortable around water. For kids, it's a little like gaining superpowers, giving them mastery of a new skill and the courage to enjoy the water safely.
People who learn to swim are more likely to approach water with respect and caution, combined with the confidence to stay safe.
Fun fitness
As Coach Kegan often says, beyond its life-saving potential, swimming is an excellent form of exercise. It engages multiple muscle groups, enhances heart health, and improves overall fitness. As a low-impact activity, swimming is suitable for people of all ages, making it a fun activity that promotes health and well-being.
#2 The Role of Adults in Keeping Everyone Safe
Watchful eyes
Adults need to keep a close eye on children around water. Accidents can happen quickly, so it's essential to be vigilant and ready to act if needed.
Rules matter
Adults should set and enforce safety rules, like:
no running or pushing near the pool and
no diving in shallow areas.
These rules help keep everyone safe and prevent accidents.
Please talk to your children about the importance of being water-smart and paying attention to instructions from lifeguards at the beach and pools. The DHL Watersmart Online Hub is a great interactive way to learn more about being water-smart.
Emergency ready
Being water-smart and able to swim means adults are more likely to be able to prevent emergencies. It's important any time you are responsible for kids' safety in or near water.
For your kids, along with your vigilance and guidance, being water-smart and able to swim means that they are less likely to end up in difficulty in or near water.
#3 Jump in with Coach Kegan
Learn at any age
It's never too late to start learning to swim. Even if you're an adult who hasn't taken the plunge into swimming yet, consider joining swimming lessons. Learning alongside your children sets a positive example and encourages a family approach to water safety.
Make the most of your fun times
Are you planning a holiday at the seaside or near rivers, lakes or dams or at a resort with swimming pools?
Remember that being able to swim is the foundation of being able to relax and make the most of these fun times! See what one of Coach Kegan's clients says about this here.
Overcome initial hesitations
Starting to learn to swim might feel a bit intimidating at first. Coach Kegan will guide you as a beginner, help you conquer your fears, and steadily build confidence in the water.
Coach Kegan is committed to providing a welcoming and supportive approach to swimming lessons for all ages and skill levels, in Midrand.
If you're ready to jump in, contact Coach Kegan.
Sources:
* Fortuin, Jill et al. “A South African Epidemiological Study of Fatal Drownings: 2016-2021.” International journal of environmental research and public health vol. 19,22 15121. 16 Nov. 2022, doi:10.3390/ijerph192215121