Q&A for How to Build Your Stamina for Swimming

Find your baseline when you're just starting out. For instance, you might see how many laps you can do, or even how many laps you can swim in a certain time. Then, once you know your initial baseline, take steps to increase your endurance. For example, let's say you want to swim 500 yards. If you can only swim 250 yards right now, try adding 10% to that distance each week, and swim 2-3 times a week.

Try racing often. If that doesn't help, then try perfecting your technique, and then swimming race speed. It will take a while, so be patient.

Keep a pace, like one breath every three strokes or one breath every five strokes, that will help you hold your breath longer and go faster.

Remind yourself why you're swimming. Think about the goals you have for yourself. Also, try reading some inspirational quotes by other athletes, swimmers especially.

Run on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays for about an hour, and lift weights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Rest on Sunday.

Use breath control, eat plenty of carbs, and avoid sugar.

Make sure you do cardio workouts (like running and jumping jacks) and sprint sets in practice. Do not forget the 6 beat kick. Also, try to lengthen your arms while swimming.

Swim three to four times a day. You won't improve drastically, but try. If it doesn't work, do five-month plan.