Teaching floatation

The second phase of teaching is learning to float. All these exercises are done in vertical positions. This is the first time when children try out a swimming position. This horizontal position brings about the “defensive” reflex. The first sign of it is when learners try to lift up their head out of the water. At this point trainers and instructors should be very patient as it is an inborn reaction. By gradual help children learn how to float within a short time. Trainers’ active help means that they hold the children’s hands while standing in front of them. Children’s grip informs trainers whether their learners will need more help. The next step is when children lean against the stairs of a swimming pool. Soon children can float by themselves and this is the starting point of learning to glide. Besides teaching children propelling themselves through water by stomach flutter kicks back floatation also should be taught. When learners lie on their back their sense of balance becomes uncertain therefore they cannot help lifting their head out of water. The other reason for doing so is the change of optical orientation. The first unpleasant position that they should get used to is diving into water at ears level. Coaches and instructors can help when they hold children’s nape with one of their hands and back up their hip with the other hand. They can also be taught how to help themselves, for example, children grab the edge of the swimming pool, lean back while pressing their soles against the wall. They learn static balance while they float on their back, chest and side. Then they learn dynamic balance which means maintaining balance. Then children can manage to integrate whole stroke arm motions and swimming rhythms. Several equipment helps when learning back floating.