What The Heck? I Can't Swim.

[Tilly2]

I went to an Aqua aerobics session yesterday and thoroughly enjoyed it, even though it was hard work. I was horrified to find, however, that I no longer have the ability to swim. I haven't tried to swim for at least ten years and now, I can't. I am really concerned and miffed because have always thought of myself as a swimmer.

Old age creeping up, I suspect.

[Buenchico]

I suspect that, while your brain still knows how to swim, it's so long since you used the relevant muscles that they're struggling to follow your brain's instructions. If so then, over time (with regular attendance at the pool) you should find that your ability to swim returns.

[Tilly2]

I'm going to be going to the aerobics, twice a week. I'll keep trying and see how it goes. Thanks for the reassurance, Buen.

[Arksided]

I agree, I'm sure it'll come back to you. One time I was totally alone for over a week, no phone etc... and hadn't spoken to anyone (or muttered something to oneself/sang aloud) I really could not speak... trying to say hello etc... it was most bizzare.

[Patsy33]

How strange! I suppose 10 years is a long time. I'm sure in next couple of weeks you be swimming again, Tilly.

[jno]

true, Arksided, I was once away from AB for a week and when I tried to come back, all my wit and brilliance had drained away.

[woofgang]

I hope it comes back eventually Jno :)

[jno]

it's probably down the back of the sofa somewhere.

I expect Chris is correct (as usual) but at least in my case, muscles that have struggled with a bit of RSI in my working years have trouble pulling my greater bulk through the water. Whales can do it, why can't I?

[jourdain2]

It will come back, honestly. I speak as one who was told by a spine surgeon to swim to strengthen my back muscles and try to avoid a nasty operation. That was this time last year and I hadn't swum for well over 20 years. I found it so very hard to swim a length at first, but did end up doing 1/2 a mile. After illness this year I am now struggling on 2/300m - but I know I'll get there eventually if I keep at it. Keep doing it! :)

[Tilly2]

I'll keep on keeping on. :-)

[JimF]

Can you still float and/or tread water?

[Tilly2]

I didn't try floating on my back as I didn't want to get my hair wet. I could tread water though. What I couldn't do, was lie in the water and lift my legs up. I couldn't even do a doggie paddle!

[TonyV]

Tilly2 bit like riding a bike it will come back to you plus it's really good exercise, which is not hurting any joints.

[jennyjoan]

my friend who is about 68 - could only do a few widths - now she is doing 50 lengths about 3 times a week and has said she could do more but gets a bit bored so then leaves the pool and does a workout at the gym.

[Tilly2]

I can still ride a bike but I can't swim, at the moment. Botheration!

[TonyV]

Tilly2 the more you do the stronger you will get. As excempified by the adage " how do you eat an elephant - just a mouthful at a time " xx

[naomi24]

That's bizarre. How can you be unable to swim when you can swim? Swimming is a matter of confidence. Would you say you were nervous, Tilly?

[Tilly2]

Maybe it is a confidence thing, Naomi. I'll persevere.

[1ozzy]

I swim like a stone these days

[aelmpvw]

//I can still ride a bike but I can't swim, at the moment. Botheration!//
don't go for a bike ride along the canal towpath ...

[Tilly2]

Good advice, Ael. :-)
That's exactly how I felt, Oz. I'm surprised that you don't swim everyday, in the creek...