Do You Have to Swim in the Navy?
Enlisted in the Navy! Sounds exciting, doesn’t it? But, like many aspiring sailors, one common question that pops up in their minds is – Do I have to swim in the Navy? Will I be required to undergo water-based training or go on swimming missions? Can I still join the Navy if I’m not an avid swimmer? Get set to dive into the truth behind this question!
What Training Program Will I Be Undergo?**
In the US Navy, all new enlistees undergo Basic Training (Boot Camp) at either Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Illinois, or Meridian, Mississippi, depending on their rating or job specialty. During the initial 8-week phase, recruits learn basic life skills, Navy core values, and fundamental military standards. **Physical Readiness Test (PRT) is a crucial part**, where recruits are evaluated in push-ups, sit-ups, and a 1.5-mile run to ensure they meet the necessary physical fitness standards.
When it comes to swimming skills, the Navy has introduced a new **Swimmer Proficiency Program** that emphasizes water safety and familiarity, rather than competitive swimming skills. This program allows sailors to develop their own swimming abilities and confidence through regular training and practice. However, **not every rating or job specialty may require swimming**.
Here’s a breakdown of common Navy ratings and their water-related requirements:
| **Rating** | **Swimming Requirements** |
| — | — |
| Hospital Corpsman | Emergency response and basic swimming techniques |
| Aviation Machinist’s Mate | General water awareness and ability to react in emergency situations |
| Boatswain’s Mate | Basic boating and water safety |
| Seaman | Participation in water-based training activities |
| Other ratings with limited water exposure | In-house training and familiarization |
What Are the Chances of Being Assigned a Swimmer-Related Mission?**
While swimming abilities are essential for some jobs, **not all sailor’s duties involve swimming**, especially in non-combat and administrative roles. On average, about 60% of Navy personnel spend their entire careers without a significant need to swim professionally. **Even in the most water-intensive jobs, like aviation and special forces, swimming is not exclusively the primary duty**. These roles often require basic water skills, but specific missions may not involve water-based operations.
How to Improve Your Swimming Skills After Enlisting?**
Since not every rating requires extreme swimming proficiency, it’s essential to understand that, with practice and dedication, **any sailor can become proficient in swimming**. Some key tips to improve swimming skills for navy sailors are:
* **Practice regularly**, either in a pool, beach, or lake environment.
* **Focus on stroke development**, such as the front crawl, backstroke, or breaststroke.
* **Work on breathing techniques**, including relaxed breathing and exhaling on turns.
* **Concentrate on body alignment** and streamlining through the water.
* **Train with a buddy**, providing moral support and making swimming more enjoyable.
Keep in mind that **specialized swimming training** programs, like the Navy Swimming Instructor Course, are open to sailors who want to become certified swimming instructors for fellow sailors.
Conclusion and Summary**
In conclusion, while swimming skills are useful and sometimes essential for navy sailors, **not everyone needs to be an elite swimmer**. Joining the Navy doesn’t require you to be an expert swimmer, nor will you be forced into a swimming-related mission every time. **Most training and missions focus on your rating-specific skills**, even for tasks with minor swimming implications. With practice and enthusiasm, you can develop impressive swimming skills, and – with the right mindset and preparation – excel in various roles within the Navy!
