Five Ways to Upskill in the Water to Become a Fully Fledged Fish

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There's something utterly mesmerising about watching a person soar through water — it's no wonder swimming is one of the most-watched sports at the Olympics. Seeing a human being take on one of the earth's most powerful elements is transfixing. It also feels pretty great, too, when you're the one cutting through The Big Blue, cool water on your skin, that feeling of buoyancy and lightness.

But, not all of us are natural born swimmers. Some of us need a little help to find our feet (or fins) in the big blue wet thing. So we've partnered with the folks at Gage Roads Brewing Co, in celebration of the refreshing and aptly named Single Fin summer ale, and found five ways you can upskill in the water this summer. Yep, you'll be the next Dawn Fraiser or Ian Thorpe in no time. Hey, we like to aim high.

BUST A MOVE AT SYNCHRONISED SWIMMING

You know those schools of glittering silver fish that dart around the water, left then right, completely in unison? Well, you can channel their precision and become a part of your own school at a synchronised swimming class. Sure, it might sound a little retro or remind you of Mike Myers hairy chest in the opening scene of Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me — but water ballet, as it was formerly known, will teach you all about coordination and grace in the water. You can register with the Sydney Emeralds Synchro Club to attend a free trial at Burwood, North Sydney or Cook and Phillip Pool. Each session runs for 1.5–2.5 hours and starts with a 30-minute on-land warm up. Groovy, baby.

LEARN TO SURF IN MANLY

We're pretty sure everyone who saw Point Break wanted to learn to surf (or steal Patrick Swayze's hairdo). And, really, if you live in Sydney, you have no excuse. We've got beaches, surf schools and mostly perfect sunny weather — that's all you need. Make this summer the year that you learn to hang-ten like a pro. Better yet, do it with a group of mates. Manly Surf School runs adult group sessions for $70 per surf lesson and you can do as many or as few as you like. Just make sure after you successfully ride a wave in that you properly celebrate with a coupla Single Fins.

MASTER EVERY SWIMMING STROKE

Perhaps you've spent your swimming life getting by on some sort of doggy paddle-breaststroke hybrid that isn't particularly graceful or effective. We get it, not everyone is a natural-born fish. But this summer, it might be time to master the four basic strokes: butterfly, breaststroke, backstroke and freestyle. Different Strokes Swimming offers adult swim classes — in groups of five or less, so everyone gets attention — all across Sydney, from Prince Alfred Park to Drummoyne Swimming Centre. The first lesson is free; you'll just need to bring along goggles, a swimming cap, sunscreen and water (for drinking, they'll provide the swimming H2O). When you finally nail the tricky butterfly, treat yourself to a cold one.

BECOME A CERTIFIED SCUBADIVER

Since the summer of '69, Pro Dive has been teaching Sydneysiders how to scuba dive. Head along to one of the weekend courses ($299 for 2.5 days: one evening plus Saturday and Sunday) and get certified to dive anywhere in the world, while you check out Sydney's budding marine life. All equipment is provided — you just need your togs and a towel — you'll take four ocean training dives and receive access to e-learning, pool training, a log book and international certification. Pick between two aquatic wonderlands, Coogee or Manly, to see the Sydney which resides beneath the waves. Once you've finished the course, grab a couple of Single Fins to celebrate.

LEARN TO PLAY UNDERWATER RUGBY

Okay, this is definitely one for those who can handle themselves underwater and are seeking a challenge. Underwater rugby is a fast-paced, exhilarating sport which is as difficult as it sounds, but extremely rewarding. Designed to keep you fit and fierce, each game tests your swimming skills and coordination, your grit and determination. The rules are relatively straightforward — one ball, two goals, two teams try and score — but the whole being underwater thing definitely makes things more difficult. UNSW runs mixed training sessions every Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday. The first session is free, all you need to bring is your swimmers and a towel. Grab a brew after the match, trust us, you'll need it.

Make your next summertime fling a Single Fin. The light-bodied ale is packed with plenty of hoppy flavour to keep you smiling all season.