How to become the Aquaman of municipal swimming pools

 Whether it's taking the right lane or outpacing your neighbor in the crawl, here's how to better manage these little problems that ruin the lives of novice swimmers.When you descend for the first time the steps of the ladder that takes you into the basin of a swimming pool, another world opens up to you. A world with its own codes and social rules (often unwritten). You no longer breathe the same way, you act differently and you can even change your personality once in the water learn it with lifeguard training

For those who land in this new universe, the change can be brutal.

Here are the small problems that beginners often face and our suggestions to better overcome them.

1. Where should I put my feet in the cabin?

The cabin floor is wet. Some areas more than others and as a bonus, there is no bench to put your things there. Only a small coat rack attached behind the door will save you the day. But you'll have to change standing up, like a master yogi.The problems start once you take your first shoe off. How to keep the bare foot dry, while removing the second shoe? It is often at this time that we spread out in the cabin, absolutely wanting to keep our feet dry. Or that a sock inevitably ends up in a puddle...

Practical advice : if the pool provides towels, take one and put it on the ground. If not, put an extra one in your bag or bring a small mat with you. Your whole life in the cabin will be enhanced.

2. Don't fall when you go to the pool

Congratulations, you managed to change without (too much) getting your feet wet. You are now unscathed on the other side and ready to swim. But don't declare victory too soon. The possibility of sprawling barefoot on this slippery floor should not be overlooked. And the closer you get to the pools, the wetter the path leading to them becomes. Falling in front of all these strangers in swimsuits is definitely not the best idea.

Practical advice: take your time. Quite simply. If "no running" signs have been placed everywhere, it's not for nothing.

3. Which lane should I choose?

Arrived in front of the pool, you discreetly observe the comings and goings of the swimmers. The slowest lane is overrun with children and parents. Optimistic that you are, you therefore think to opt for the fastest. But that's when a big-armed speedboat overtakes you in the middle of a 50-meter freestyle world record attempt. The risk of being sunk by this torpedo is too great. Better to opt for the middle water line.

Practical advice: relax. Start with the slowest lanes. Warm up slowly and find your cruising speed. Remember that you are not here to try to follow the best swimmer in the pool. It's not your ego, but your average pace that will decide the lane in which you place yourself.

4. OK, let's go for the race

It's good, you're swimming, having a good time and finally enjoying doing the lengths quietly. Problem, another swimmer gets stuck in your lane at your height. Needless to deny it, you know the race is on. Without even having looked for it, you find yourself in a sort of aquatic duel with this stranger who has come to measure up to you. Besides, he's waiting for you at the end of a pitch to set off at the same time as you... You'll have to be strong and not give up, the race is on.

Practical advice: none. It's a confrontation, and as such, only one thing is needed: victory!

5. Running, even at a distance

Here you are in the slowest lane. You are focused on your front crawl stroke until your best enemy bursts into the next lane. Do we calm down and let the importunity go? Impossible, you gently pick up the pace to put yourself at his height and keep up the pace. Impassive, your lungs are ready to explode, but you don't show it. It's not smart, it doesn't add anything, but that's the game. Even three meters apart. And here too, you have to win the race.

Practical advice: facing someone who is not on the same lane as you can be a good goal. Fixate on a faster swimmer. Progress should be quick.

6. He Catches Me

Your enemy has left the scene. The middle lane is yours. Just you. Yes, but this paradise never lasts long. Here is another shark biting your toes. He smells you, tracks you, a few centimeters behind you. Problem, you have already given everything a few minutes earlier to win a first victory and you don't have much left in your pants. Should we stay in the lead at all costs or change lines and let this new opponent win the game so learn it with lifeguard training

Practical advice: once you finish a length, take a short break. Take your time and let those who are faster than you pass. The experience will be all the more pleasant and you will then be able to swim at your own pace again without having the feeling of being chased by a pack. And if you are constantly being overtaken by others, simply opt for a slower lane.

Learn it about: THE EFFECTS OF SWIMMING ON THE BODY