Swimming Mythbusters

There are many 'experts' on what you should and shouldn't be doing in regards to swimming lessons. From old wives tales, to school pick-up gossip, to the media, it can be confusing to know which advice to listen to. We have looked to Swim Australia, the peak industry body and national authority on learn to swim and water safety, to help 'debunk' some of the more common myths. The facts might just surprise you!

Myth: It's too cold to swim in winter.
Fact: Parents often worry about bringing their children to swimming lessons during winter. Whilst the weather outside might be cooler, our pools remain heated all year round. In fact, we increase the temperature of our pools to between 32 and 34 degrees meaning that your little ones stay warm whatever the weather. 

Myth: Swimming in winter gives you colds and flu.
Fact: Colds and the flu are viruses. Kids are at no greater risk of catching a cold or flu from swimming then they are from other public places such as school, daycare, shopping centres and playdates with friends. In fact, research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, found that upper respiratory tract infections (which includes sore throats and sinus infections) are reduced by more than 40% in those who remain physically active throughout autumn and winter. 

Myth: All ear infections come from swimming.
Fact: Whilst outer ear infections can sometimes be caused by swimming in poor quality water, often inner ear infections are generally unrelated to swimming. In addition, Col Jones provides swimmers with crystal clean water provided by our state of the art water filtration and UV treatment plant.

Myth: Kids need a break from lessons.
Fact: Many students participate in only one half an hour lesson per week. Swimming Australia suggests that this is a very small amount of time from which to 'need a break.' At Col Jones Swim School, we find that having a break can actually be counterproductive as students are going long periods without practicing the skills. If skills are not reinforced regularly, they deteriorate and often need to be re-learnt all over again upon return. This can be frustrating for all concerned, and can impact a child's self esteem.

By continuing swimming throughout the year, children maintain and improve upon their skills, making leaps and bounds in their swimming abilities. Technique and skill does not deteriorate, as we often find with children who take a break.