Improving Stamina for Swimming: A Guide for Beginners

Question
I am ashamed to say that I have not exercised during my life but have now decided at the age of 67 that I want to learn to swim.  I am having private lessons and also practice on my own every day. I can only manage 15 minutes as I become out of breath and my back starts to hurt.  How can I improve my stamina?

Answer
I would suggest to just keep doing what your doing and not to push it.  If you can only do 15 minutes at a time, fine.  As you build up their endurance you'll become stronger and can start doing 20 minutes, then 25, then 30卋ut to take it slowly. Good Luck.