How to breathe while swimming for beginners | Easy Swimming Breathing Tips

Learning how to swim can feel exciting, but for many beginners, the hardest part isn’t the strokes. It’s breathing. Knowing how to breathe while swimming for beginners is essential for staying relaxed, safe, and comfortable in the water.

In this guide, you’ll learn step-by-step swimming breathing techniques, common mistakes to avoid, and simple drills to improve your confidence.

Why Breathing Is Important in Swimming

Breathing might seem natural on land, but in water, it’s different. Proper breathing:

• Keeps your body relaxed and prevents panic.
• Improves stamina so you can swim longer without getting tired.
• Helps you focus on technique instead of struggling for air.

Beginners often hold their breath too long or lift their head too high, which leads to discomfort and wasted energy. That’s why practicing correct swimming tips for beginners is the first step to becoming a better swimmer.

Basic Breathing Techniques for Beginners

Exhale Underwater

The golden rule: exhale when your face is in the water. Blow bubbles through your nose or mouth to release air. This prevents that panicky feeling of needing to exhale and inhale at the same time.

Inhale Quickly Above Water

When you turn your head or lift it slightly, take a quick breath in through your mouth. Don’t try to take a deep gulp—just enough to keep going smoothly.

Coordinate Breathing With Strokes

Breathing should feel like part of your stroke rhythm, not an interruption. Start slow, practicing one breath every few strokes until it becomes natural.

Breathing While Swimming Freestyle (Front Crawl)

Freestyle is the most common stroke for beginners, and breathing correctly makes it much easier.

• Head Position: Keep your head in line with your body, looking slightly down.
• Body Rotation: As you roll your shoulders during the stroke, turn your head just enough to get air.
• Bilateral Breathing: Many swimmers breathe on both sides (every 3 strokes), but beginners can start with one side (every 2 strokes) for comfort.

Breathing in Other Strokes

Breaststroke breathing: Easiest for beginners. You inhale when you lift your head and exhale underwater with each stroke.

Backstroke breathing: Since your face is above water, you can breathe naturally. Focus on staying relaxed.

Butterfly breathing: More advanced, but beginners can practice lifting the head forward slightly to inhale without forcing it.

Common Breathing Mistakes to Avoid

• Holding breath too long: Causes tension and panic.
• Lifting head too high: Lowers hips and slows you down.
• Breathing too late: Makes you rush and swallow water.

These errors are common in beginner swimming lessons, but the good news is they can be fixed with practice.

Breathing Drills for Beginners

Here are simple drills you can try in the pool:

Bubble Drills: Stand in shallow water, put your face in, and blow bubbles. Lift your head to inhale, then repeat.

Side-Kick Drill: Kick on your side with one arm extended. Practice turning your head to breathe.

Poolside Practice: Hold onto the wall, submerge, exhale underwater, then lift your head for air. These swimming breathing drills improve comfort and make your strokes smoother.

Safety Tips for Beginner Swimmers

Start in Shallow Water:

Always begin in water where you can comfortably stand. This helps you feel safe and reduces the risk of panic.

Never Swim Alone:

Always swim with a buddy or under supervision, especially if you’re still learning. Lifeguards or instructors add an extra layer of safety.

Learn to Float First:

Before practicing strokes, get comfortable floating on your back and front. Floating helps you relax and stay safe if you get tired.

Practice Breathing:

Work on exhaling underwater and inhaling above water before swimming longer distances. Controlled breathing keeps you calm.

Take Breaks Often:

Don’t push yourself too hard. Rest at the pool’s edge or in shallow water whenever you feel tired.

Wear Proper Gear:

Use well-fitting swim goggles to keep water out of your eyes and increase comfort. Beginners may also use kickboards or floatation aids for practice.

Stay Calm if You Swallow Water:

It happens to everyone, don’t panic. Stop, tread water, or move to the side and take a moment to recover.

Follow Pool Rules:

Pay attention to posted rules and lifeguard instructions. They’re there for your safety.

Learn Basic Water Safety Skills:

Know how to tread water, float, and reach the poolside when tired. These basics can make a big difference.

Build Confidence Gradually:

Start with short practice sessions and simple skills before moving to deeper water or advanced strokes.

Conclusion: How to breathe while swimming for beginners | Easy Swimming Breathing Tips

Breathing in swimming may feel tricky at first, but with practice, it becomes second nature. By learning how to exhale underwater, inhale smoothly, and avoid common mistakes, you’ll gain confidence in the pool. Remember, the key to how to breathe while swimming for beginners is practice, patience, and relaxation.

FAQ’s