Swimming can make body changes feel more noticeable because swimwear shows more of your body than everyday clothes.
During puberty, your body may change quickly or more slowly than the bodies around you. Both are normal.
You still belong in the pool while your body grows and changes.
There is no one swimmer body
Swimmers come in many shapes and sizes.
Your height, hips, chest, body hair, skin, scars or body fat do not decide whether you are a "real" swimmer.
Bodies also change at different times. Comparing yourself with someone in your squad who started puberty earlier or later can make normal differences feel bigger than they are.
What if my chest is developing?
Breast development can make swimwear fit differently or make movement feel more noticeable.
Look for swimwear that feels secure and comfortable without digging in or restricting your breathing or movement.
If you are uncomfortable with the fit of your swimsuit, tell a parent, carer or trusted adult. You may simply need a different size, cut or style.
What about body hair?
Body hair is a normal part of puberty.
You do not have to remove body hair to be allowed to swim. What you do with your body hair is a personal choice, not a rule about being clean or athletic.
What if I feel exposed in the changing room?
Use a changing cubicle where available, or ask what private options exist.
You may also feel more comfortable using a robe or towel while moving between the changing area and poolside, where this is allowed.
Wanting privacy does not mean you are ashamed of your body.
What if someone comments on my body?
Comments about weight, breasts, body hair, periods or how your swimsuit fits can feel very personal.
Teasing, sexual comments or humiliating remarks are not something you should have to put up with.
Tell a parent, carer, coach, teacher, pool staff member or safeguarding lead if someone is making you uncomfortable.
What if I start worrying about being smaller or lighter for swimming?
You do not need to shrink your body to deserve a place in sport.
Growing bodies need enough food and energy for school, development, recovery and training.
If you are skipping meals, frightened of food, constantly worried about weight, often dizzy or exhausted, or getting repeated injuries, tell a trusted adult.
What if periods make me more self-conscious?
That is common too.
You might worry about leaks, the outline of period swimwear or needing to change in front of other people.
Being prepared and knowing where you can change privately can help. So can talking to someone you trust before the worry gets too big.
Remember
Puberty changes your body. It does not change your right to enjoy swimming.
Your body does not have to look a certain way to belong in the water.