Swimming Guide: How to Improve Your Breathing Technique

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27 Nov, 2025

Swimming Guide: How to Improve Your Breathing Technique

Are you a budding swimmer but unable to control breathing underwater? This is one of the most common obstacles yet most important skills in swimming. When your breathing is controlled and relaxed, you can easily make strokes and swim seamlessly. This can improve your speed and strokes as well.  

On the other hand, poor or uncontrollable breathing can make you feel anxious and tired, and affect the overall rhythm in the water. However, the good news is that you can improve your breathing technique with regular practice. You can join the best swimming club in Melbourne to learn breathing techniques so that you can swim like a pro. Here are some of the proven techniques: 

1. Focus on Calm Breathing Before Swimming  

Start with the basics! Good breathing before you even reach the pool is essential. It is good to spend 4 to 5 minutes practising slow, steady breathing to relax your body. You must inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Meanwhile, keep your shoulders loose. This helps you stay relaxed and prepares your lungs for a more controlled breathing rhythm. This will also build your core strength as a swimmer.  

2. Stable your head position  

This technique can do wonders! A stable head position lets you breathe without affecting your body’s alignment. Ensure you keep your head down and let your body rotate naturally with each stroke.  

If you want to breathe, turn your head to the side rather than lifting it upwards. Do not lift your head as it can cause your legs and hips to sink, making you slower.  

3. Exhale underwater 

This is one of the biggest mistakes swimmers do when holding their breath underwater. It not only puts pressure but also forces you to rush your next breath. So, it is good to exhale gently when your face enters the water. Ensure you release the air slowly and without any halt before turning your head to breathe.  

One of the biggest mistakes swimmers make is holding their breath underwater. This creates tension and forces you to rush your next breath.  

4. Use body rotation to support breathing 

Always remember that efficient breathing comes from your whole body, instead of your neck. When you swim, let your shoulders and torso rotate slightly with each stroke. When your mouth comes closer to the surface, it makes it easy to take a breath without any rush or push. It is a good idea to join the best swimming club in Melbourne, where you can practice these techniques and improve your strokes.  

5. Time your breaths with your stroke. 

There is no denying that breathing becomes easier when it follows a regular rhythm. Ensure you choose a breathing pattern that suits you, such as breathing every two or three strokes. These small things make a huge difference and boost your breathing techniques.  

Wrapping Up  

These tips will help you improve your breathing techniques with time and practice. Make sure you stay consistent and focus on timing your breath underwater.