When the temperatures drop outside and the days get shorter, many people find it harder to get motivated. However, late fall and early winter offer ideal conditions to start swimming. Indoor pools are a little emptier, the atmosphere is more focused and training in the water provides structure and balance in a darker time of year.
Whether you want to swim your first laps, get into triathlon for the long term or are simply looking for a sport that is easy on the joints, this guide will help you get started in a clear, controlled and confident way.
Table of contents
- Why swimming in winter is an ideal starting point
- Equipment: what you really need
- Training structure for beginners
- Motivation in the dark season
- Typical mistakes when starting out and how to avoid them
Why swimming in winter is an ideal starting point
At first glance, winter may seem like an unsuitable time of year to start swimming. In fact, the opposite is true. Indoor pools offer constant conditions: pleasant temperatures, clear lanes and reliable training times. It is precisely this calmness that helps you to concentrate on the essential technical basics without external distractions.
Swimming is independent of the weather, can be planned and is also one of the most effective full-body workouts of all. If you start now, you will create a routine that will last - and lay a solid foundation for the coming season, whether in the pool or later in open water.
Equipment: what you really need
You need less than you think to get started. Well-fitting swimming goggles and a functional swimsuit or jammers form the basis. Chlorine-resistant materials ensure long-term comfort and stability.
Neoprene shorts are a particularly valuable aid for beginners. They immediately improve your water position and give you the feeling of swimming more effortlessly and stably - an important advantage, especially in the indoor season. A pullbuoy can also help you to concentrate on your arm technique and reduce errors in your water position.
You can add other equipment such as paddles, pullkick or short fins later once you have developed confidence in the water.
Discover the sailfish equipment.
Training structure for beginners
Swimming rewards technique - not strength. An unstructured start therefore rarely leads to quick success. Follow a clear, simple sequence:
Swim in
Start with five minutes of calm swimming. The goal is not speed, but getting into the water.
Technique part
This section is crucial. Practice drills such as gliding, one-arm crawl or leg stroke variations. You will develop a feel for the water, balance and rhythm - the foundations that will underpin any subsequent intensity.
Main series
Short distances such as 4 × 50 m or 6 × 50 m are completely sufficient. Make sure that your technique remains stable and that you have enough breaks.
Swim out
Finish each session with a relaxed 100 m. This lowers your heart rate and ends the training cleanly.
Regularity is more important than duration. Two sessions per week already ensure noticeable progress.
You can find more tips and tricks at sailfish Academy
Motivation in the dark season
Winter demands discipline - but it also creates routines that you will be proud of later. Fixed training days give you structure, and shorter, controlled sessions can be easily integrated into everyday life.
At this time of year in particular, it is worth looking for training partners or taking part in technique-oriented courses. This motivates you, ensures commitment and helps you to improve faster.
Typical mistakes when starting out and how to avoid them
Many beginners try to "conquer" the water with strength. But this leads to unnecessary exhaustion. A calm, flat position in the water and a relaxed arm stroke are far more effective.
Also avoid holding your head too high - this is one of the most common causes of sinking hips. Work consciously on your breathing and try to build up a steady, calm movement.
And: be patient. Swimming is complex, but progress comes steadily as soon as you train with concentration and regularity.
