How to learn how to swim?

How long should it take for me to learn how to swim?

• So I'm trying to learn how to learn how to swim before school starts because I might decide to join the swim team. However, the last time I swam was like 8 years ago and I got to around level 2 and stopped. So now I want to practice a lot during these last few weeks and I want to get pretty good at at least one type of stroke (preferably freestyle). I have a BMI of 21, I am healthy, I'm 5'5, athletic, and I excel at most other sports. How good do you think I will get and on average how long should it take for a guy like me how to swim? By the way, I am not using swim classes or anything, I'm mainly going to be using videos from youtube and the olympics and maybe ask my friend to help me out for the first few classes.

• Answer:

  I would say it would take you a while If you are starting to swim I would recommend a coach they know what to do but if you want to keep on doing it your self ask a friend or do it yourself record yourself swimming and watch your mistakes On freestyle hands should stretch as far as you can rotate your shoulders keep your head straight kick constantly work on your breathing pushing off the wall should be quick flip turns should also be quick breathing should be controlled properly toes pointing out pulling under the water should be strong and pull the water strong from the back never give up and always push yourself to the next level A coach will know when to push you and give you drills and tips