Are you one of the 52.8% of people living in Ireland who isn’t a confident swimmer? 

If so, how many times have you thought about learning but, for one reason or another decided not to take the plunge and learn?

It’s OK. It’s natural to avoid something we see as challenging. As a child, I didn’t learn to swim until I was 9, which is VERY late for children, but I believe it’s never too late for anyone to learn to swim, especially adults. 

I know learning a new skill can seem like a big scary thing but it’s completely achievable and rewarding with the right guidance and support. 

Over the years I’ve taught hundreds of adults to swim and after they've become confident and happy in the water, they all say “I wish I had learned to swim earlier” or “This is one of the best things I’ve ever done”. 

But why is it that adults don’t learn to swim? 

In this blog, I’ll share the 5 main reasons why adults often avoid learning to swim and, more importantly, why they should definitely trust themselves and dive into learning.

1️⃣ Fear of water: Yep you guessed it. Fear is a major factor for adults not learning to swim. Whether it's a past traumatic experience or just general discomfort, the fear of water can be paralysing. However, learning to swim can be an empowering journey for many adults who gradually move past these fears. Adults can conquer their anxiety around swimming and build confidence in the water when they’re supported by patient and experienced instructors.

2️⃣ Time constraints: I know life is busy with work commitments and family responsibilities and this means you’re left with hardly any time for yourself to do things you truly want to do. It’s important to remember that learning to swim is an investment in both your well-being and safety. With both group and private swimming lessons at Swim Max, you can commit to learning to swim and over time enjoy swimming with your family on holiday and in the sea.

3️⃣ Self-consciousness: In today’s society, concerns about body image and feeling self-conscious in a swimsuit are big factors that can put adults off from going to the swimming pool for lessons. It's important to remember that everyone starts somewhere, and at Swim Max, lessons are taught in a non-judgmental, supportive environment. Everyone is in the same situation and we love that swimmers support each other in and out of lessons.  

4️⃣ Belief that it's too late: Some adults think that learning to swim is just for babies and children. This couldn't be further from the truth. As I mentioned earlier, it’s never too late to learn to swim. Embracing the mindset that age is just a number can open the door to a whole new water world. At Swim Max, our adults can also enjoy Aqua Fit. 

5️⃣ Lack of exposure: Growing up without regular exposure to water activities can contribute to adults avoiding swimming. Breaking this cycle requires a willingness to step out of your comfort zone and embrace the joy of learning. Joining adult swimming lessons, attending open swim sessions, or simply spending time in the water with family can create a positive relationship with swimming and transform it from an unfamiliar activity into a lifelong skill that you love.

At Swim Max, we’re really passionate about teaching adults to learn to swim. It makes our young swimmers happy when their parents can confidently enjoy the water with them and are no longer spending the family holiday sitting poolside just watching. 

So, what are you waiting for? 

Sign up for Adult Swimming Lessons at Swim Max and know that you can do anything you put your mind to. I guarantee that once you get started, you’ll wish you’d started sooner.