swimming as a workout

Question
Recently I have began to swim as my primary means to maintaining my weight. I know that swimming is easier on your joints than many other sports,which is one reason that I feel more comfortable doing it. With that knowledge I feel that I almost do anything with my body while swimming and I am concerned that I may be hurting my joints without knowing it. What is the safest way to swim and what strokes would you recommend for me to do as a beginner? Also I saw you mention something about proper breathing. Is it bad to swim the length of a small pool without coming up for a breath and what about coming up for a breath at irregular intervals throughout my 30 minute workout? I want to do this to be healthier and be careful to do it correctly as not to create long-term problems. Can you please help?

Answer
Natalie-
You're doing fine.  It is better to breath regularly since the benefits of swimming increase when it's done as an aerobic exercise, meaning with oxygen.  Any stroke you are comfortable with is good and as long as you aren't swimming a lot of butterfly without a good shoulder warm-up.There really isn't anything that will damage your joints while you are swimming, just don't over do it and push to far too fast.
Hope this helps
George