At just five years old, Amanda had a terrifying experience that would shape her relationship with water — she nearly drowned while on a family holiday.
That moment left a lasting mark, turning swimming into something to fear rather than enjoy. For years, she avoided the water entirely, but when health challenges later in life pointed her back to the pool, Amanda was faced with a life-changing decision: let the fear win or try again.
Amanda was advised by her physiotherapist to take up swimming to help with her arthritis and back problems. But for someone terrified of water, even this well-meaning advice felt like yet another hurdle…Determined not to let fear hold her back any longer, Amanda bravely signed up for one-to-one swimming lessons at our Magna Vitae venue in Horncastle. A conversation with a member of the team got her started — and changed everything.
Amanda reflects,
“Considering the fact that all I could do was doggy paddle for 2 seconds before I sunk, the amount that I have achieved with Ryan helping me learn to swim, is literally amazing…”
Although Amanda still experiences anxiety and struggles with her breathing in the water, her instructor Ryan creates a calm, supportive environment. By using tools like pool noodles and adapting lessons to Amanda’s needs, Ryan focuses on building her confidence, strength and breathing technique — one step at a time.
Ryan tells us, “I know what she is capable of, so I always encourage her to keep pushing herself.”
After 8 months, Amanda has now been able to achieve her 25 metres swimming backstroke.
Amanda says, “He is extremely patience, he has a lot of empathy, he really is a great teacher. If I start to panic, he calms me down and doesn’t rush me. I couldn’t have wished for a better teacher.”
Amanda is still working towards swimming with ease and confidence. She looks up to the graceful swimmers around her, hoping one day to glide through the water just like them. One of her biggest motivators is her daughter, who is currently learning to swim at school. Amanda dreams of joining her in the pool for a casual swim session — something that once felt completely out of reach.
Ryan states, “The most rewarding thing has been seeing Amanda go from petrified of the water, to where she is now. She wanted to learn but didn’t dare get in the water. It has been a journey getting over that mental barrier, but it has been a huge achievement to now achieving her 25m on her back.”
And most recently, she has achieved swimming two lengths on her front!
Amanda’s journey is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to face your fears, try something new and unlock your potential. We’re so proud to have been part of her transformation — and we can’t wait to see what she achieves next.
7th November 2025
Celebrating Our Members at the Active Lincolnshire Sport & Physical Activity Awards
Swimming at Magna Vitae
We offer a variety of swimming options in Skegness, Louth, Mablethorpe and Horncastle, ensuring that no one is left out of the fun! You will find something you love in our pools, from lane swimming to aquacise, family fun splash and even pool parties.
Child Swimming Lessons
Discover the benefits of swimming lessons for your child/children, at Magna Vitae!
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Over 50’s Swimming at Horncastle
Enjoy your swim in a relaxed environment with our over-50’s sessions.
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Adults Only Swimming
Come and join us for an adults only swimming session! No-one likes getting splashed!
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Our charitable status.
We are proud of who we are and what we do.
As a Charitable Trust, we aim to combat social exclusion and improve health issues, along with so much more!
Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for our community by offering an extensive range of leisure and cultural activities designed to inspire, entertain, and nurture well-being.
