What has not been mentioned was the wardrobe malfunction that happened in my first class. When the noodle float was positioned in front of me it unfortunately pushed down the top of my old and rather saggy swim suit purchased probably about 20 years ago, with the result that the life guard had a bit of an unexpected surprise...so this week I purchased a rather snazzy Zoggs swim suit from John Lewis to ensure everything stayed where it should. There is nothing worse (apart from worrying about taking in a lungful of water) than worrying about whether your bits and bobs are on show.
So anyway - the second lesson. What a night! I was very nervous, but once I got in the pool I felt a lot better. It was incredibly hot in the changing room area, and what with having the odd hot flush this afternoon I had started worrying about how I would cope with a flush in the pool. There was no need to worry though as the water was very pleasant and the flushes stayed away.
This week I was separated off again and also had my own life guard keeping an eye on me for the beginning of class. He stood there encouraging me while I practiced floating on my back using the noodle float and then standing up. I was slightly anxious about the long metal pole he was holding. It reminded me a bit of the hook the teacher had when I first went to swimming lessons in the horrible outdoor pool in Reigate circa 1974. I wondered how the pole might be put to use and under what circumstances, but luckily I didn't get to find out.
We did some more putting our faces in the water then breathing out, and then some gliding (me with two floats). But something good happened this evening. It must be something about a desire to progress even if you are not quite sure what will happen. I got a bit fed up with the two floats so got rid of one, and found it was rather nice....the teacher looked over and said he reckoned in a few minutes I would be without a float at all, and five minutes later that's what happened. I managed to 'swim' about 3 metres towards the side of the pool - well it was more of a very splashy doggy paddle, but at least I got the feet up AND got my face wet. It was so exciting I wanted to shout out!! The final exercise was floating on the back with no support...this is actually pretty great and relaxing, although I think that is mainly as it keeps the face out of the water, so as long as next week I can improve the self righting bit, it will be even better. To be told you are a natural floater is pretty wonderful for someone who has NEVER floated unsupported on their back before - I just hope I can maintain these exciting new skills next week.
I have nothing but praise for our teacher. There is just about the right level of encouragement which makes me feel confident, safe, and wanting to keep going.
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