The Guide To Being Transgender

Swimming

Okay, so this chapter will be all about swimming as a trans person! It can be uncomfortable and awkward, and it often isn't super enjoyable (especially in public situations) but it is doable. I'll discuss attire to begin with.

First of all, I'll tackle swimming attire as a FtM person. It can be helpful if you have a good binder. It is safe to swim in most binders, especially GC2B and Underworks. Hell, Underworks even makes swim binders if I'm not mistaken.

Of course, not everyone has a binder they can use. Some people aren't out yet, and others just don't have the means. Firstly, I would recommend getting a bathing suit top that isn't padded at all. Maybe even find one that looks more like a sports bra, since those often downplay chest size. If you're able, you can then also wear a swim shirt, which does wonders for confidence, trust me. I would definitely recommend getting a swim shirt if you can.

Now let's talk about bottoms. Some people can wear swim trunks without getting much backlash. If you can do that, then by all means, wear swim shorts. If you can't wear real swim shorts, then get some bottoms that look more like shorts than a bikini. They are out there. They may be hard to find, but they exist. They'll still be in a feminine style, but they'll be better than bikini bottoms. And if you do have to wear bikini bottoms, then just remember: guys wear speedos. *shudder*

Now then, as for MtF people. I obviously don't have as much experience with this, but I'll try and help. I wouldn't recommend speedos, of course, since they tend to draw attention to an area you probably don't want people noticing. However, somewhat shorter and more pastel-ish swim trunks could help a bit. It also helps to remember that lots of cis women wear swim trunks just because they're more comfortable. I would also maybe recommend wearing a swim shirt. It can be dysphoric to go bare-chested from what my friend tells me, so a swim shirt helps to cover up. Also, if you're out or with trusted friends, then you could wear a padded bikini top under the swim shirt, and it would add a little definition. That's really all I can say.

Now I'll talk about dressing rooms and stuff. This is all pretty universal. Changing in a public place like that is already awkward, especially school locker rooms and such that don't necessarily have private curtains. Most places have at least a shower with a curtain that you could change in. There may be a little bit of a line, but it's worth it if you have the time and patience. If not, try to change in a relatively secluded corner, and change as quickly as possible. If you trust the supervisor, maybe even talk to them and see if you can use their office.

If you enjoy swimming, it's all worth it. If you don't, it's a nightmare. Just know that you are absolutely not alone. Other people go through the same things, and no one is really looking at you because they're too worried about themselves. The spotlight effect hits everyone. Just know that the spotlight is imaginary. You'll be okay. You'll survive. Try to have fun, and look on the bright-side. Eventually, you'll make it to the point where you're okay with yourself, and you'll be fine with going out in front of people. It may take a while, but you will get to that point.

I hope this helped at all. If you have any more specific questions, please, please, ask them in the comments or in a DM. I will answer them, gladly. All I want to do is help. Please allow me to do that. Thank you. Be safe, be strong, be you. I love you guys.