Beginner lap swimming tips?

Hi everyone,

I recently got a gym membership and want to get better at swimming laps! Here are some things I've noticed as I swim:

1. I can't swim straight. I veer off either to the left or right.
2. I'm out of breath fairly quickly and need to take a break in the middle of the lap or so. I'm assuming it's because I only take one deep breath and then just try and hold it as I swim.
3. Maybe I have improper form? I saw a video where while swimming, we should be hitting hand to hand, and then hand to thigh? I def don't do that. I just kinda throw my arms forward and back without technique lol.

Any tips to correct these? And what are some beginner strokes/workouts I can do? Thx!

submitted by /u/dragonborn_23
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