1. Learn to swim

To feel confident in the ocean, you need to feel confident in the pool. You need the basic swimming skills to keep you afloat, tread water and move through the water. Keep up your learn to swim lessons until you are confident to swim multiple lengths in a swimming pool.

2. Swim, swim, swim

Swim regularly. Try to swim at least once a week, you can swim in a pool or the ocean. The more you swim, the better you get and the more confident you will become. Have your stroke technique checked every now and again by a swim coach to ensure you are not developing any bad habits.

3. Keep fit

Keeping fit, in any form but particularly swimming fit, will help you feel more confident in the ocean. When you are in a challenging situation in the ocean you will need to call on your fitness. Staying calm and keeping in control is a lot easier when you are not struggling for breath.

4. Be in control

The ocean is a natural environment, and can throw up all sorts of conditions. It is important to be in control when you're in the ocean, and not let the ocean take control of you. You can do this by understanding the conditions, being prepared, staying within your limits and anticipating what is happening around you (i.e. waves).

5. Know your limits

Understand your limits in the ocean. As you get more confident your limits will increase, but you should always remain well within your limit - especially if you have only just started to get your confidence up. There's nothing worse for your confidence than a knock back because you took your confidence too far.

6. Swim at beaches patrolled by lifeguards

Always swim at a beach patrolled by lifeguards, and swim between the red and yellow flags. You will feel more confident knowing there is help and support available if needed.

Join an OceanFit program this summer!
To increase your ocean awareness and confidence, train for an ocean swim or participate in a regular ocean fitness class then check out OceanFit’s range of programs available for kids and adults from entry level to awesome, Australia-wide. Visit oceanfit.com.au.