Zwem-ABCs diplomas are more than safety certificates!

Two swim coaches giving their student a swimming diploma certificate.

Our diploma event is just around the corner, and I’m thrilled to see swimmers take on this exciting new challenge! For those new to swimming, let me explain what diploma events are and why completing them is so worthwhile.

The national swimming certificates are divided into three levels: A, B, and C, each increasing in difficulty. These diplomas were designed to ensure that citizens acquire essential survival skills to stay safe in various bodies of water, including canals, beaches, rivers, and pools. You can read more about the Dutch diploma system here.

But many students ask me why these diplomas are important. Some even prefer to skip them and move straight from the intermediate level to our sports class, believing they don’t need the certificates.

So, are these diplomas really worth your time, dedication, and money?

Yes they are, just think of them as an investment in your safety, confidence, and well-being. Here’s what you gain:

  • Increased Safety: For yourself and those around you
  • Confidence and Comfort: In various aquatic environments
  • New Opportunities: To explore water-based activities
  • Health Benefits: A boost in fitness and endurance
Mother, Father, child, boy are swimming together, and smiling.

Increased safety 

While we encourage students to see the ocean and the pool as a fun and beautiful environment, they also pose risks. Therefore, it is crucial to take caution and prepare ourselves with essential survival skills.  

My mother has always told me you should not fear water but you should give it the respect it deserves. 

Let me tell you, water deserves the respect that these certificates represent. They will equip you with life-saving skills and they will prepare you to handle real-world situations, ensuring you know how to act and help others when needed. 

Confidence and Comfort  

Consequently, feeling this sense of safety within yourself will make you feel confident and comfortable in the water. You won’t just feel comfortable in pools but also in challenging environments such as rivers, canals and beaches. This confidence will open up a new world of aquatic exploration and enjoyment! 

New opportunities 

Which leads me to the third reason… new opportunities. Many of our swimmers have missed out on memorable holidays with their families and friends because they were not comfortable in the water. Some, particularly parents, have changed holiday plans because they didn’t feel capable of keeping themselves and their kids safe. Well, these certificates give you the peace of mind to fully participate in more experiences. 

Our intermediate level gives you the ability to take care of yourself in the water. But the certificates give you the ability to take care of yourself and others. Imagine all the new adventures you will be able to take, the new hobbies you could join, and the new places you could explore! 

Boost your health 

Lastly, there is a great leap between the intermediate level and the sports class, but our diploma classes help bridge that gap. They prepare you to swim long distances and build endurance, which greatly benefits your health. Swimming is low impact, a full body workout that improves cardiovascular health and overall fitness. Therefore, by advancing through these levels you will boost your swimming ability and your physical well being. You can read more about the health benefits here.  

So, invest in yourself and join our certificate classes. You will be trained and supported by our great coaches and meet lovely swimmers just like you! 

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