I grew up most of my life near the ocean. As a child, I remember splashing along the shoreline, enjoying the warm water and soaking up the sun. As a young adult, my friends and I met every Sunday morning for brunch and tanning. By then, splashing in the shallow water no longer held the same appeal. Many times, I wished I knew how to swim, but as I got older, I convinced myself there was no real point in learning.
In 1995, in my early thirties, I moved to Colorado. Although the mountains were breathtaking and I began embracing new outdoor experiences, I still missed the ocean. During trips back to Puerto Rico to visit family, I got my “ocean fix,” spending long days near the shore tanning and people-watching.
As I began traveling to different countries, my desire to experience water-based activities grew stronger. I wanted to snorkel, sail, kayak, ride a Jet Ski, and even go white-water rafting, activities I avoided for years because I didn’t know how to swim. My first snorkeling experience was a disaster. Even with a guide holding my hand and a bulky life vest, I became extremely anxious and nauseous.
This spring, I finally decided to face my fear and learn to swim. At 46 years old, I took my very first swim lesson. Ironically, I’m not afraid of the water at all, I love being near it and even in it. I arrived early for my private lesson, not nervous but genuinely excited. While I’m usually insecure when learning something new, this time felt different.
The swimming academy I chose was state-of-the-art, and my instructor competed locally. After a brief conversation about my nonexistent skills, we jumped right into the water. I laughed as I remembered my past attempts at floating, each one ending in a slow, steady sink. My awkward efforts to coordinate my arms and legs must have looked comical to anyone watching their children on the waiting-room monitors.
My instructor, Jessica, was incredibly patient and skilled. Her calm guidance and encouragement helped ease my frustrations. Learning to swim as an adult is challenging, and this experience reinforced my belief that children benefit greatly from learning early. I now encourage my friends with young kids to start them as soon as possible.
After six private lessons with Jessica, I learned the basics of breathing, floating, and coordinating arm and leg movements. I’m not swimming independently just yet, but I understand the fundamentals and practice will get me there. I plan to keep applying the techniques she taught me every time I’m in the water.
This experience has been both fun and empowering. I wholeheartedly encourage anyone who has considered learning to swim at any age to give it a try. The right mindset and an experienced, compassionate instructor make all the difference. Choose someone who understands your fears, respects your comfort level, and keeps the experience safe, supportive, and enjoyable.
