Learning how to swim as an adult is hard. But Sue Nelson, aquatic programs specialist at USA Swimming, emphasizes that it's incredibly satisfying.

``It allows you to have more flexibility in what you could do with your children or grandchildren going to water parks,'' Nelson said. ``It's cardiovascular, decreases the stress on your joints, helps increase the range of movements. There are many health reasons to do it, and it's fun.''

She added that centers across the country, including at Miami Dade College, are increasing their beginner swim class offerings to adults.

``If the adults don't know how to swim, we could then foster another generation of children who don't know how to swim,'' Nelson said.

Some swimming fans also add that the movements help shape muscle tone and back strength.

The trick to picking up swimming, Nelson said, is selecting the right coach. Nelson recommends the following:

• Make sure your trainer has experience working with adults with your body type. This will increase his or her empathy if you fear water.

• Make sure your trainer is certified. Reputable organizations that certify swim coaches are the American Red Cross, the YMCA, the Starfish Aquatic Institute and Swim America.

``Can it be done?'' Nelson asked. ``Most certainly if you have the right combination.''

ROBERT SAMUELS

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