HEALTH

Here at GL, our favorite way to stay active on a hot summer day is to make a splash. And if you ask us, a pool cool down is the cure for almost anything. Daunted to take the first dip? We’ve compiled our best tips for having the swim of your life as well as some super cute swimsuit styles to keep ya looking fresh while you make some waves.

Safety First, Sister

Always make sure a lifeguard is on duty before diving headfirst into a pool, lake or ocean. If you’re in a lake or ocean, have a swimming buddy to keep you company and don’t swim out too far. Tell friends or fam back on shore where you’re going so that if something goes wrong, they know to alert help. Make sure to heed any safety warnings such as riptide, jellyfish, sharks, leeches or choppy waters. And when in doubt, don’t go in the water - it’s better to avoid dangerous situations and head to an indoor pool.

Preparation is Key

Before you start swimming, slap on a coat of waterproof sunscreen and make sure to reapply every 60 minutes or so since it’ll wear off. Bring along a pair of goggles so you can see where you’re swimming and on’t eat anything less than 30 minutes before taking a dip or you may get bad stomach cramps. Finally, make sure to drink lots of water since swimming can make your body *really* dehydrated!

Do Like Dory

Just like our favorite blue tang Dory, we recommend that you “just keep swimming.” Laps in a pool are a great way to get in some cardio without feeling sticky and sweaty afterwards. To banish boredom, try different strokes and styles of kicking on each lap. If you like swimming in the ocean or lake, you may want to invest in a pair of fins so you can travel longer distances. Whatever you do, just keep pushing yourself and getting your heart rate up to maximize your workout!

Select Your Style

Rock a comfy and cute swimsuit and you’ll be able to swim forever (well, you'll want to, at least)! We love bright patterns and colors for this season and have selected three styles that we’ll be sportin’ all summer long.

Model Iskra Lawrence’s high neck bikini is boho and perf for summer. Get her look with this pink patterned high neck two piece from Aerie here and here.

Channel Willow Smith’s classic one piece with a sporty suit in a bright color. This sleek style here from Speedo is great for a more serious swimmer.

Lea Michele’s mix-and-match two piece is ideal whether you’re lounging at the pool or hitting the waves. Get similar pieces here and here, also from Aerie.

Will you be slipping into any of these suits for a pool sesh soon?

Photo credits: Iskra Lawrence, Willow Smith, Lea Michele.

by Morgan Ome | 7/14/2016