How do I warm up for a swim?

Warming up before you swim is vital to ensure you get the most out of your session, ensuring your muscles are ready for the workout ahead.

Top 5 stretches before getting in the pool:

• Shoulder rotations - Forwards and backwards with both arms
• Quad pull - Standing up straight, bend one leg at the knee, grabbing the foot and holding it so that it is parallel with your back
• Calf stretch - With one foot in front of the other, bend your front knee slightly, keep your back knee straight and lean forwards
• Cross body triceps stretch - With your right arm raised to shoulder height, reach across to left side of the body
• Cobra pose - Lying front down on the floor, lift through the top of the sternum, by putting hands under your shoulders and pushing up

I know how to swim, but what about breathing techniques?

There are two key aspects to master to become comfortable breathing in the swimming pool. These are keeping your face submerged in the water and finding a rhythm to your breathing. Swimming with your face in the water, rather than with your head up, makes for an easier swim as there is less drag when the body is flat. Less drag means less resistance. Of course, you then need to grasp breathing with your head in the water. The key is to begin to exhale, with your face in the water, as soon as you finish breathing in. This means, as soon as it’s time to breathe, your lungs are empty and ready for a refill.

Must-Haves for Your Swimming Bag

Kit yourself out for the pool, whether you’re inside, outside or even just pool side.

Our range of men’s swimwear, women's swimwear and kids' swimwear features shorts, jammers, swimsuits bikinis and sets. A multitude of technologies, fits and cuts, including chlorine resistance, lightweight constructions and UPF is brought to you from experts including Speedo, Slazenger and Nike.

Get pool side ready in style and with safety in our collection of pool shoes, including sliders and aqua shoes, from the likes of Hot Tuna, Gul and adidas.

Our specialist accessories and equipment will ensure you’re prepared for training sessions, recreational swimming or race days. A wide selection of googles, swimming caps, nose pegs and ear plugs from top brands and experts like Speedo will bring comfort and the determination to help you go even further.

Armbands and float vests for children have been crafted for the development of both swimming skills and water confidence.