Swimming has a unique way of pushing us to our limits while offering an unmatched sense of freedom. For many, including myself, it’s not something that comes naturally. Years ago, I couldn’t fathom swimming 25 yards without feeling utterly defeated. Today, I swim regularly, compete in triathlons, and find immense joy in the water.
If you’re wondering how to build your swimming endurance or transition from a non-swimmer to a confident athlete, this is my story. I hope it inspires you to take the plunge and see just how far you can go.
The Question That Made Me Reflect
A few days ago, after wrapping up a pool session at the East Meadow Aquatic Center, one of my training partners, Ray, asked me, “How do you build your endurance? You seem to just keep going.”
I smiled but didn’t have an immediate answer. On my way home, I started reflecting on my swimming journey—from struggling to doggy paddle across a pool to becoming a confident swimmer. It all started in 2014, and boy, has it been a ride!
My Early Swimming Experience
A Love-Hate Relationship with Water
Growing up, I was never a swimmer. My childhood experiences with water were… complicated. During my summer sleep-away camp days, counselors would force us into an icy lake. I hated every moment of it. Doggy paddling was my go-to, and no amount of yelling from counselors could convince me to put my face in the water.
Back home in Long Beach, our weekly trips to the local pool were more about fun than skill-building. While others learned the crawl stroke, I stuck to my favorite moves—doggy paddling and Tarzan-style swimming (head out of water). Technically, I did learn the side stroke, but that was the extent of my “training.”
The ocean wasn’t much better. My mother had strict rules about not venturing beyond knee-deep water, fearing riptides and accidents. Her warnings stuck with me well into my teenage years. Splashing around in the shallows was safe, so that’s all I did.
Taking the Leap as an Adult (Literally)
Fast forward to 2014. My training partner and I signed up for the Captiva Triathlon in Sanibel, Florida. Neither of us had seen a triathlon before, but we were determined! After booking our flights, reality hit—we needed to actually train.
That June, I stepped into the Long Beach Pool feeling completely unprepared. I had no goggles, no gear, just a bathing suit and cap. Swimming 25 yards felt impossible. Doggy paddling and Tarzan strokes defined my attempts. I even started dry-heaving midway through. My inner voice alternated between “You can’t do this” and “Just keep going.”
How I Learned to Swim
Signing Up for Swim Lessons
Realizing I couldn’t do this alone, I joined Open Water Swim LI Masters, a group about an hour away from my home. The coaches, Bryan Krut and Christine Esposito, made all the difference. Bryan jumped into the water to teach me how to blow bubbles (!). Christine patiently guided me until I could finally swim 25 yards without stopping.
For the first time, I started to believe I could actually do this.
Mastering the Basics
My breakthrough came when I began training with Magdalena “Maggie” Stovickova and Roy Lester. Maggie’s tough-love approach was a game-changer.
One day, she took one look at my oversized bathing suit and laughed. “What are you wearing? That suit is at least three sizes too big!” she said. She explained how loose fabric creates drag, so I reluctantly switched to a much snugger size. Though it felt awkward initially, the new suit transformed my swimming efficiency.
I also picked up essentials like goggles, earplugs, and nose plugs. These small changes made swimming more comfortable and helped me focus on improving my technique.
My First Triathlon
By September 2014, it was time for the Captiva Triathlon. The ocean swim was approximately 450 yards, far beyond anything I thought I could achieve a few months earlier. But I adapted.
The rough waters might have intimidated some, but I loved every second. I came out of the water with a sense of accomplishment I’d never felt before. Though my training partner outpaced me in biking and running, I dominated the swim. That alone was an incredible win.
Tips for Building Swimming Endurance
If you’re just starting out or looking to improve your stamina, here’s what worked for me:
1. Take It Slow
Don’t pressure yourself to master long distances right away. Start with shorter sessions to build confidence.
2. Focus on Technique
Enroll in lessons or seek guidance from a coach. Proper breathing, body position, and movement efficiency are essential for progress.
3. Invest in the Right Gear
A well-fitting swimsuit, goggles, and other accessories can make swimming more enjoyable and less frustrating.
4. Be Consistent
Swim regularly to build muscle memory and endurance. Aim for at least 2–3 sessions per week.
5. Celebrate Small Wins
Each lap, yard, or milestone completed is worth celebrating. Acknowledge your progress, no matter how small.
The Freedom of Swimming
Now, swimming is my happy place. Whether I’m gliding through open water or pacing myself in a 25-meter pool, I feel a sense of freedom like no other. It’s been nearly a decade since I first started, and what began as a fearful struggle has transformed into a lifelong passion.
When Ray asked me about endurance, I realized there’s no magic answer. Building my swimming stamina took years of practice, persistence, and self-belief. But one thing I know for sure is that anyone—even the most hesitant non-swimmer—can learn to swim.
And that’s a wrap…
If I can go from doggy paddling to completing triathlons, so can you. It’s never too late to learn, improve, and achieve your goals in the water.
Remember, swimming isn’t just about physical fitness; it’s about resilience and confidence. Start small, stay consistent, and most importantly, just keep swimming.
Happy swimming! I’d love to hear your experiences in the comments below. Have you overcome swimming challenges? What has helped you build endurance? Share your story!
