National Learn to Swim Day: Learn in Prince William County

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now) — Saturday is National Learn to Swim Day and Prince William County swim instructors are encouraging beginners to hop in the pool.

Prince William County Parks and Recreation officials stressed the importance of kids learning how to swim, especially with summer fast approaching.

Water Safety Instructor Aniyah Henderson, who has been teaching swim lessons for almost a year, learned how to swim at age 17. Before taking classes, she said she only knew how to doggy paddle.

“It is so important to learn how to swim because those skills can save your life or someone else’s. It is also a great way to get your body moving and challenge yourself,” she said in a post from Prince William County Parks and Recreation.

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The first step, Henderson noted, is to get comfortable in the water.

“It sounds simple, but this is definitely the biggest challenge I face when teaching. It is something that is new to a lot of people, so it’s a fear that can be difficult to overcome,” she said.

Not only is it important to learn how to swim for safety reasons, but the physical and mental health benefits are numerous.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted that swimming can improve your mood and, due to its lower impact on your joints and muscles, people are often able to exercise longer in the water.

Prince William County offers swim lessons for all ages, from kids starting at 6 months old, to teenagers and adults. Beginners who are interested can sign up here.

The Aquatics Center Water Safety School also offers a free program to second-grade students in Prince William County elementary schools. For more information, click here.

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