Use the kickboard. Use the kickboard to help strengthen your kicking muscles and improve your kick.
Wetsuit = warm suit. If you're swimming in cold water, wear a wet suit. A swimming wetsuit is different from a surfing wetsuit, so get the right one.
Anti-fog goggles. Look for goggles with Anti-fog to help avoid them from clouding up while you swim.
Cap it. Wear a swim cap to keep your hair dry and improve your efficiency.
Goggles that fit. Make sure your goggles fit your face and are snug enough to not come off while you're swimming.
No board shorts. Get a real ‘competitive' swimsuit if you want to get serious about swimming. It will reduce drag and help you swim efficiently.
Use a pull buoy. Try using a pull buoy. It's a floatation device that goes between your legs to keep your legs up while you focus on your arm strokes.
Wetsuit = warm suit. If you're swimming in cold water, wear a wet suit. A swimming wetsuit is different from a surfing wetsuit, so get the right one.