Learning to swim is one of the most rewarding experiences a person will go through in their youth. Living in an area susceptible to high levels of heat during summers can bring droves of people to the beach and public swimming pools. For those looking to learn the basics of swimming, the City of Alamo Municipal Swimming Pool will be holding swimming lessons starting on June 7th for ages 5 and up. Below, we’ll go over some tips for swimming and advice for small businesses that sell swimming gear. Grab a floating lounger and read on!
Tips for Businesses
Here in the Rio Grande Valley, swimwear is typically sold throughout most of the year with the exception of winter. This includes the spring and autumn periods. With the swimwear market estimated to hit $19.3 billion by 2018, and with the proximity of South Padre Island, businesses in Alamo are looking to make a healthy earning within this industry. We’ll give you some tips below to start packing in those summer customers:
- Understand the fashion industry and the dynamics that come with it. Read industry trade magazines to learn which designs and trends are expected to become popular.
- Do your research on the market size you want to do business with. Develop a business plan with objectives, a target market, and the strengths and weaknesses of the industry. This way, you’ll have a better overview of what to expect in terms of sales.
- Network with other small businesses owners. Alamo has a thriving small businesses community with a wealth of knowledge on how to reach success. At the Alamo EDC, we have business initiatives to help jumpstart any entrepreneurs’ market objective. These initiatives include the Revolving Loan Program and the Alamo TIRZ.
Preparation
Now that we’ve covered the bases for small businesses, it’s time to take a look at what you can do once you’ve purchased everything you’ll need. Most of the time when deciding to go out to the local community pool, we grab a towel and head for the door. There are other items that should be on your list:
- A swim cap is required in most cases to enter a public pool. They’re also very helpful if you have long hair and want to keep it out of your face after taking a deep dive.
- Goggles are a great way to see underwater, especially if you’re a beginner.
- Using a nose clip will keep water out of your nostrils, which is something you won’t have to worry about when learning to swim. It isn’t a must, but it’s nice to have if you’re learning to backstroke or form crawl.
According to Alamo EDC Special Projects Director Melissa Gonzalez, children will not only learn the basics of swimming, but also techniques that might save their lives. “It’s important to keep children engaged in activities such as these,” she said. “Learning to swim can help them save their own life or even a loved one. These skills are essential.”
Gonzalez also encourages parents to bring their children out to the Alamo Municipal Swimming Pool to learn techniques and skills that will make an impact on their swimming experience, plus there’s free lunch.
“The pool is open to the general public and the PSJA ISD Child Nutritional Department will be there offering free lunch. Come out to let your children learn life saving skills and get a free nutritional lunch.”
Out of the Pool
Emerging from the swimming pool can sometimes be unpleasant as you can be hit with a rush of cold, breezy air. Sometimes even using a long towel will not keep you from getting a cold chill when exiting a pool. Try bringing swim parkas to ease the transition. Flip-flops made of rubber can also protect your feet from hot concrete.
Rinse Off When Arriving Home
Pool chemicals can damage your skin and hair, which is why it’s crucial to shower after swimming in a chlorinated pool. Use products that will restore moisture in dry skin. Also keep in mind that chlorine will cause swimming suits to disintegrate if you allow them to dry. Make sure to rinse out your swimming trunks or bathing suit when arriving home.
Grab a Towel and Head for Alamo!
Empowering small businesses and fostering an environment of learning and economic growth is what we do at the Alamo EDC. We work hard to ensure that businesses in Alamo have a platform to grow, succeed and expand. If you’re ready to take your business to a location with a rich culture, booming economic landscape and affordable living, look no further than Alamo.