SWIM TO ENJOY IT-OR TO SURVIVE

Press, 14 November 1977, Page 13

SWIM TO ENJOY IT-OR TO SURVIVE

Swimming is like eating. We do both for much the same reasons — survival and enjot meat. Being able to swim is our most effective safety measure against drowning. “No other life preserver can substitute,” says the secretary of the New Zealand Amateur Swimming Association, Mr Rodger

Forster. “Naturally we endorse lifejackets in boats and consider safety aids and equipment essential in many water situations, but these devices should always' be backed up by the ability to swim well." Being able to swim is not just an asset; it' is a necessity if you are interested in any form of water sports, says Mr Forster.

“No matter what the sport — diving, surfing, sailing, boating, fishing — it is essential to be a capable swimmer and be able to save yourself if you do get into trouble,” he says.

“Practical reasons aside you will never get the tremendous fun and enjoyment from the water if you cannot swim because of the niggling fear of it.” Very young children can

readily be taught to swim Mr Forster believes that parents can do a tremendous amount towards encouraging their children to swim and helping overcome any fears they may have of water. “The first contact a child will have with water will be a home — in the bath, shower, etc. If parents can accustom their children to it and instil confidence in them, they are half way to learning to swim. Water should be shown as something which is fun not something to be afraid of,” he says.

Most amateur swimming clubs offer learn-to-swim classes all year round. Many of them also employ professional coaches or qualified voluntary people for individual and group instruction. Mr Forster considers proper classes are the best means for children to learn to swim quickly and properly. “Unfortunately, there are a number of parents who are unwilling to take their children along to lessons because they themselves cannot swim and are embarrassed about it. Parents do not have to actively take part in these lessons, and I feel it is inexcusable to deprive your

child of the opportunity of learning to swim for such a reason,” he says.

Unlike many sports, swimming can be an individual or family activity. If, after a hard day’s work, you feel like' going off to the local pool and having a relaxing dip you

can do so without having to count on anyone else. Alternatively the whole family can take off to the pool or beach and enjoy it all together. Swimming is also very good for children in their muscular development and co-ordination. There are

also very few better waxs ol getting fit.

Finally, not only are you protecting your lite

by being able to swim but chances are that you mav be instrumental in saving someone else if they are unable or less able to swim than vou.