Age is Just a Mindset
THE HUMAN BODY IS MORE CAPABLE THAN WE KNOW
How many times have you thought you were too old to swim? Maybe you’ve had too many injuries, or your stamina isn’t what it used to be. Perhaps you’ve never quite nailed the breathing or strokes and feel it’s too late to start now. These thoughts are common, but they’re exactly that—just thoughts. Limiting beliefs like these are what often hold people back, but they don’t have to.
I started working as a lifeguard at 16, during my college years and a gap year before university. I did all the shifts, including the early mornings, and every day, without fail, the same group of older adults would show up for their swim. They’d do their lengths, then head out to start their day. I was always amazed at their dedication and grace in the water. Some of them would hobble to the poolside, but once in the water, they moved with elegance and strength. Watching them taught me something profound: there’s no age limit for swimming. It’s a lifelong activity that can bring joy and health to anyone.
There’s a common misconception that you must learn to swim as a child to make it a lifelong exercise, but this simply isn’t true. Adults may have less flexibility than children, but with consistent swimming practice, they can improve their range of motion. Adults may face fear or overthinking, but a good mindfulness strategy can help create a relaxing and rejuvenating swimming routine. Even limited mobility due to injuries or conditions doesn’t have to stop you. With the right approach, you can develop a stroke that works for your body and allows you to move through the water effectively.
Betty Brussel breaking records at age 99, shows it’s never too late!
Watch Betty’s inspiring story here.
Swimming is one of the best activities to continue into your later years. It’s low-impact and low-intensity, reducing the risk of injury, and it’s fantastic for your cardiovascular health.
I believe many adults struggle with learning to swim because traditional lessons focus too much on techniques and practical skills, rather than helping people feel comfortable and playful in the water. Play is such a powerful way to learn, even as an adult. When you play, you explore how your body moves in the water, discovering what works best for you. It might not look like what you see Adam Peaty doing, or what’s shown in YouTube tutorials, but that doesn’t matter. It’s still swimming. You’ll still reap the benefits, and most importantly, you’ll be doing it your way.
So, if you’re searching for an activity you can enjoy for life, swimming could be just what you’re looking for. It’s never too late to dive in—literally!