Quick Dip: Who Can I Talk to About Changes to My Body?

A short read for the car journey

Category: Growing Up & Swimming: Growing Bodies  | Read time: Under 2 minutes

If you have questions about your changing body, start with a parent or carer. You might be wondering why your shape is changing, why a teammate is growing faster or why you feel more self-conscious in your swimming costume.

You do not need to wait until something feels like a big problem before talking about it.

For questions about puberty, changes in your appearance or worries about growing, talk to your parent or carer. They can help you speak to a school nurse or doctor if needed. Tell them about pain or tiredness that keeps happening too.

If you would rather speak to another trusted adult, a school nurse or teacher can help you find the right support.

Your coach can help when changes affect how swimming feels. For example, if you keep arriving too close to the wall, they can watch your approach and help you adjust your timing.

Describe what you notice. You do not have to know the cause.

You could start with, “I’ve noticed something different about my body and I’m not sure what it means.”

You can ask to talk without your teammates listening. If starting the conversation feels awkward, a parent or carer can help you explain.

Writing down your question or sending a message to your parent or carer can make that first conversation easier.

Ask a parent or carer: Can we have a chat about something I’ve noticed as I’m growing?

Created by Basingstoke Bluefins Coaching Team