a length or two then do a rest lap or two... keep pushing and trying to increase your "fast" laps vs. your "rest" laps.
For example, when I was starting, or after a break, I will do 3 freestyle laps then one Breast Stroke Lap. Then I try to increase to 4 freestyle for one BS. Then 5 to 1... etc. Pretty soon I can do a whole mile non-stop Freestyle.
During that, I try to "Sprint" a length here and there. It becomes easy to get into a pace and just go, but you want to push harder on some laps... like interval training.

I always go all out as fast as I possibly can on my last length and try to "Leave it all in the pool."

I try to never stop more than a turn and push off between laps as well.



Just find goggles that you like and are comfortable. Try a few different kinds and see if you have a real preference. Make sure they are sized correctly.


Good luck. Swimming is great. It can be a great time to focus, clear your mind and just push your body.