I am a sports enthusiast and perpetually watch the sports channel. A water sport that I am most interested in is swimming. It is a sport that requires a tremendous amount of energy and concentration to swim laps in water at an incredible pace.
The sport usually takes place in large pools or open water bodies such as a lake. Swimming is one of the most popular Olympic sports with various events such as freestyle, butterfly and individual medley to showcase skills. In addition to these events, teams can also part in a freestyle or medley relay which consists of an amalgam of styles.
Swimming in general is very challenging as it requires a set of specific techniques for strokes and breathing. There are distinct rules in competitions concerning the form for each individual stroke, the kind of swimsuits, caps and injury tape that are allowed. Besides professional competitions, there are community activities where swimming can be learned to relax and feel energised.
I am enthusiastic about swimming because it is not only a recreational activity but also a great way to stay fit and healthy. Swimmers often have well-toned bodies given the rigorous training they go through on a daily basis. The full-body motion required for swimming provides an excellent cardio workout while the water resistance and constant movement help build muscles. It is a fantastic sport and hobby to have.
Vocabulary:
- Perpetually - regularly
- Tremendous - very great in amount
- Amalgam - combination
- Rigorous - strict or severe
Part 3 Follow Up - Questions & Answers
1. Which is the most popular sport in your country?
Our national team has been playing cricket for many years, and they have had remarkable achievements in international cricket tournaments. Some of our cricket players are internationally renowned as they have unbeaten track records, and whenever they play, the fans feel an adrenaline rush. The nation is mad about watching and enjoying cricket and see their favourite sportsmen perform in the international arena.
2. What things do people like to do near water?
Water, in my perspective, has the potential to reduce stress and depression in people. Hence people in their leisure time spend most of their time in different water activities like collecting seashells or pretty rocks, building sand castles, kite flying, running, jogging or just walking along the sea shore.
3. Do you think schools should teach students to swim and why?
Swimming, in my opinion, needs to be taught as it can improve the emotional health and well-being of children. It’s an important skill set for safety and should be included in the curriculum as a part of safety measures. Even if a kid doesn’t prefer to learn competitive swimming, learning this sport just to survive water accidents can be a good thought. Besides, swimming can be a great aid in improving the overall balance of the body.
4. Are there many schools teaching swimming?
In many countries like Australia, swimming is a mandatory part of the Primary School Curriculum. However, it is not the case everywhere. For instance, in developing countries providing basic education itself is a farfetched dream for the Governments.
5. Do you think it is necessary for everyone to learn to swim?
I strongly believe that it’s time to make swimming lessons or water safety a mandatory part of the school curriculum and every child or adult should be encouraged to learn it to prevent deaths due to drowning. Swimming boosts the immune system, helps develop competitive spirit, and also will be helpful in unfortunate incidents or emergencies.
6. Do you think the government should spend money on developing facilities for water sport?
Of course, the government should build swimming pools and other water facilities for the public welfare, as it provides recreational opportunities for people who can’t afford their own pools. Moreover, it promotes fitness along with the possibility of attracting tourists for water activities near a river or sea, such as boating or water kayaking. It could serve as a great boost for the economy too.
