Heidi Steyn’s fin tale
As natural as a fish in the water, this swimming coach has something to teach young and old
POLOKWANE – Heidi Steyn (23) is a well known professional swim coach in the city. She offers classes to children and adults, because you’re never too old to learn a new trick.
“Drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related death to children ages one through to 14 years of age. Swimming is also a healthy and fun sport which can help children stay active. Because it is a low impact sport, there is less chance of injury when compared to contact sports such as rugby for example,” she explained.
“Children can start with swimming lessons from as early as six months, however, it is easier to teach children when they are older. Older children are able to adapt and relate to the swimming lessons faster and I personally would advise parents to take their children for swimming lessons from the age of four upwards.”
Heidi teaches anyone who attends her classes the importance of water safety, in and around the pool, a point she makes especially clear to the children.
“I believe it is important for everyone to know how to swim, even if they don’t have a pool at home. Swimming is an important skill, even for an adult, because how will you be able to save your child from drowning if you cannot swim either? Swimming lessons will help your children know what to do and how to be safe when the fall into a swimming pool, it can save a life,” she concluded.
