Quick Answer
Common fears include drowning, embarrassment, being judged, panic, and past trauma.
These fears are completely normal and shared by thousands of adult learners. Qualified instructors are specially trained to help you overcome them through gradual exposure, staying in shallow water initially, and never forcing you beyond your comfort zone.
The 7 Most Common Fears
1. Fear of Drowning
The fear: Losing control and going under water
How instructors help: Start in shallow water (chest-high), teach floating first, always within arm's reach, build water confidence gradually
2. Embarrassment
The fear: Looking foolish learning something children can do
How instructors help: Adult-only classes, private lessons available, emphasize that 1 in 3 UK adults can't swim confidently
3. Being Judged by Others
The fear: Other swimmers or students watching and judging
How instructors help: Supportive group environments where everyone is learning, private lessons if preferred
4. Putting Face Underwater
The fear: Submerging face, getting water in nose/mouth
How instructors help: Start with blowing bubbles, use goggles, nose clips if needed, extremely gradual progression
5. Panic in Deep Water
The fear: Not being able to touch the bottom
How instructors help: Stay in shallow water for weeks/months, teach floating (you WILL float!), pool edge always nearby
6. Past Traumatic Experience
The fear: Childhood near-drowning or forced swimming attempt
How instructors help: Trauma-informed teaching, you control the pace, emphasis on positive new experiences
7. Body Image Concerns
The fear: Being in swimwear around others
How instructors help: Everyone is focused on learning, swim shirts/rash guards welcome, women-only classes available
The Bottom Line
Every fear you have is valid and shared by thousands of adult learners. Good instructors specialize in fear management and will never push you beyond your comfort zone. Most fears significantly reduce within 3-5 lessons.