HOW TO BE A STRONG SWIMMER

Not confident about your stroke? Here's how to get back into the swim!

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On hot, sticky days, there's no greater feeling than taking a refreshing dip in the ocean or pool. But while we're often seen as a nation of water babies, research by the Royal Life Saving Society shows that one in four Aussies identify as weak swimmers or are unable to swim at all.

Getting back in the water can be daunting. However, with plenty of studies proving swimming offers a mind and body workout like no other, it's worth rebuilding your confidence. "When it comes to exercise benefits, swimming is in a league of its own - it combines cardio, strength training and muscle toning while also helping you to relax and de-stress," says Ross Gage, director of Aussie Aquatics. "As an added bonus, it's a low-impact exercise that's gentle on your joints and muscles, making it a great workout if you have back, hip or knee issues." So whether you've been out of the water for months or even years, here's how to rediscover the joy of swimming.

MASTER YOUR TECHNIQUE

According to experts, breaststroke is one of the easiest strokes to learn. "It comes down to three things: alternating between a wide arm-pull and kick, keeping your body high in the water and keeping a steady pace," says Gage.