Competitive swimming combines endurance, speed and stroke skill in a race. Swimmers race at swim meets held at local pools. Swim meets are governed by a set of rules and regulations set forth by the USA Swimming organization. Swimmers of all ages can find local swim meets appropriate for their level of skill by joining a swim club that is part of the USA Swimming organization.
Step 1
Find and join a local swimming club. Visit the USA Swimming website to search for local clubs (see Resources). There are three main types of clubs: parent-governed clubs, coach-owned clubs and institution-owned clubs. Parent-governed clubs are usually nonprofit organizations headed by a board of directors comprised of local parents and volunteers. Coach-owned clubs are privately owned by swimming coaches. Institution-owned clubs are clubs run by school districts, colleges, universities, boys and girls clubs, YMCAs and parks and recreation departments. Call local clubs and visit local facilities to choose the right club for your needs.
Step 2
Take swimming lessons to learn swimming basics. Once you have mastered the basics, take more advanced lessons to learn the backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly stroke and freestyle stroke, which are all performed in competitive swimming. Learn the special skills used in competitive swimming, including use of equipment, breathing techniques, proper warm-ups and proper diving.
Step 3
Discuss diet and nutrition with your swimming coach. Plan a healthy diet to give you energy for your swim practices. Learn about the proper foods to eat before swim practice and competitions.
Step 4
Study the rules, regulations and procedures associated with competitive swimming. Your local club should provide you with a rulebook.
Step 5
Enter a local swim meet to compete with other local swimmers. These local swim meets allow swimmers to qualify for larger regional meets. Also, try out for a swim team that will allow you to compete in team swimming meets.
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