Minnows 2/3/2020

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: At a swim meet, what do the timers watch to stop the clock for your race?Correct = Stand in Tree Pose for 15 seconds. On the 15th second Jump as high as you can.Wrong = Stand in Tree Pose for 15 seconds. On the 15th second Jump as high …

Read more

Minnows 1/30/2020

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What has to touch the wall in freestyle to end your race?Correct = Slap the ground 4 times with either hand or shoulder.Wrong = Do five rolls in streamline and 3 pushups. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first …

Read more

Minnows 1/29/2020

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Correct = Wrong = Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze your ears (back of head).3) Look down (with your whole face).Review 3 things for Position 11 before second 25:1) Keep your arms straight.2) …

Read more

Sharks 1/28/2020

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FREE K with board 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: Will you get disqualified at a swim meet if you “jump” off the blocks?Correct = 50 FREEWrong = 50 FREE Kick w/ board 4 x 25 on 1:00 Free Kick w/ board Split up into two groups: …

Read more

Minnows 1/28/2020

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Will you get disqualified at a meet if you “jump” in the water off the blocks?Correct = Do 3 jumps with both feet.Wrong = Do 5 two feet jumps and 5 sit and stands (squats). Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for …

Read more

Sharks 1/27/2020

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BR (this is a test) 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What are the minimum requirements to get into White? (the next group up from Sharks).Correct = 50 CHWrong = 50: 25 BR / 25 FLY 4 x 25 on 1:00 FREE with FLY K on the …

Read more

Minnows 1/27/2020

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Should you start swimming after your streamline on the surface or underwater?Correct = Roll on the floor 3 times and do 2 pushups.Wrong = Do 5 situps and do 2 pushups Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) …

Read more

Sharks 1/22/2020

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BK 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: How far is the first set of flags from the wall?Correct = 50 BKWrong = 50 BK K 4 x 25 on 1:00 BK Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together into one group 3 …

Read more

Minnows 1/22/2020

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: How many yards is it from the wall to the first flags?Correct = Do 5 jumps while in streamline Wrong = Do 5 jumps while in streamline, 5 in position 11, and 5 situps. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline …

Read more

Sharks 1/21/2020

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FLY K 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: How many yards long is this pool? Correct = 50 CHWrong = 50 BK K 4 x 25 on 1:00 BK Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together into one group 5 x {1 …

Read more

Minnows 1/21/2020

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: How many yards long is the SRC pool?Correct = Do 20 jumpsWrong = Do 10 situps and a 20 second plank. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze your ears (back of head).3) Look …

Read more

Why its important for lap swimmers to streamline

Aquatic professionals have a love hate relationship with lap swimmers. They show up at 5am thirty minutes before the pool opens. When you’re covering the morning shift for a guard that called in the night before at 11pm you’re not happy to see their expectant faces and scowls when you rub the sleep from your …

Read more

Sharks 1/20/2020

Question of the Day: What is today’s Date?Correct = Do 20 jumpsWrong = Do 20 jumps and 10 situps. What you need for today:1) Kickboard2) Fins3) Waterbottle (if you have one)4) Bravery. IF you miss an interval, a 20, or a length, then you need to pay 2 pushups and 2 situps for each one …

Read more

Minnows 1/20/20

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What is today’s Date?Correct = Do 20 jumpsWrong = Do 20 jumps and 10 situps. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze your ears (back of head).3) Look down (with your whole face).Review 3 …

Read more

Lessons 1/16/2020

Activity 1: Activity 2: Challenge: Activity 1: 6 x Back Glide Begin underwater. Lay on back, hands on head, grow into streamline. Push off in straight line. – Turn Around– Tilt your head back– Push off on the surface– Kick in soldier. Activity 2: Challenge: Activity 1: 3 x SL + 5 FREE + 1 …

Read more

Sharks 1/16/2020

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FLY Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What is the order of a 200 Medley Relay?Correct = 50: 25 BK, 25 BRWrong = 50 FLY Kick 4 x 25 on 1:00 FREE Split up into two groups: Group 1: 4 x 50: 2 strokes of BR …

Read more

Minnows 1/16/2020

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What is the order of a 100 Medley Relay?Correct = Do 4 different types of jumpsWrong = Do 8 different types of jumps + 1 pushup. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze your …

Read more

Sharks 1/15/2020

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FREE 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: Recite the entire Flow. Each step without looking at the board.Correct = 50 CHWrong = Do the flow on deck, then do a 50 FREE K no board. 4 x 25 on 1:00 FREE Split up into two groups: Group …

Read more

Minnows 1/15/2020

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Name a yoga pose that helps with swimming.Correct = Do that pose for 5 seconds and smile.Wrong = Do Plank for 10 seconds, then chaturanga for 2 seconds. Then 1 push up. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first …

Read more

Sharks 1/14/2020

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 HLBw/R w/ FINS on stomach 2 x 25 Position 11 w/ FINS Question of the Day: Why is knowing how to push against the water with different amounts of force important to swimming?(Tell a friend the answer)Correct = 50 BK K w/ FINSWrong = 50 Position 11 4 x 25 …

Read more

Minnows 1/14/2020

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What a current?Correct = Flow like a river from line to lineWrong =Do 10 situps Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze your ears (back of head).3) Look down (with your whole face).Review 3 …

Read more

Sharks 1/13/2020

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FLY K 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What team hosted the meet this last weekend in Wisconsin at the RecPlex?Correct = 50 CHWrong = 50 FLY K on back; use your belly and legs. 4 x 25 on 1:00 FREE Kick with board Split up into …

Read more

Minnows 1/13/2020

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: We had a swim meet this last weekend. Where was it?Correct = Name 6 body parts and point to them after doing 30 hops.Wrong = Do 5 belly on the ground push up into planks and 10 situps. Shout a body part at the top of ever situp. Warmup …

Read more

Sharks 1/9/2020

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FR K w/ FINS 2 x 25 Position 11 FINS Question of the Day: What is the difference between a “heat” and an “event?”Correct = 50 MS, your best / favorite time stroke; NOT FREE.Wrong = 50 FLY K on back 4 x 25 on 1:00 FREE K FINS Split …

Read more

Minnows 1/9/2020

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What is the difference between a “heat” and an “event” at a swim meet?Correct = Hold a proud, confident, powerful pose for 30 seconds and look at yourself in the mirror when you do.Wrong = Do 5 squat down and stand-ups, and 4 bellies on the floor push up …

Read more

Sharks 1/8/2020

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BK K w/ FINS 2 x 25 Position 11 FINS Question of the Day: We are at swim practice. What are we “practicing” for? Correct = 50 MS = Main Stroke. Your personal best/favorite stroke you have the best times in.Wrong = 50 FR 4 x 25 on 1:00 FLY …

Read more

Minnows 1/8/2020

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Can Minnows go to every swim meet?Correct = Jump for joy 4 times and do 2 situpsWrong = Jump for shame and do 4 situps and 2 push-ups. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) …

Read more

Minnows 1/7/2020

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: How should your belly look when you swim FR?Correct = Big belly walk across the roomWrong = 4 situps, 2 pushups, and lay on your back and do 5 big belly breaths. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first …

Read more

Sharks 1/7/2020

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BK K 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: How should your belly look when you swim FR?Correct = 50 BK with…Wrong = 50 FR K no board with… 4 x 25 on 1:00 FR. Belly control. Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back …

Read more

Sharks 1/6/2020

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BK 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: How can doing something wrong make you better at doing it right? Like swimming.Correct = 50 CH stroke the wrong way.Wrong = 50 BK 4 x 25 on 1:00 BK K Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: …

Read more

Minnows 1/6/2020

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: How can you make a mistake and still improve your swimming? or anything?Correct = Do 3 wrong streamlines then 1 right one.Wrong = Do 3 bad situps, then 4 good ones. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) …

Read more

Sharks 1/2/2020

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BK 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What is a Decade? What does it mean to decimate?Correct = 50 FREE with only 9 fingers open.Wrong = 50 FREE with only 1 finger open 4 x 25 on 1:00 FREE with fly kick streamlines. Split up into two …

Read more

Minnows 1/2/2020

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What is a decade?Correct = Do 10 JumpsWrong = Do 10 Pushups and situps Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze your ears (back of head).3) Look down (with your whole face).Review 3 things …

Read more

Minnows 12/19/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What is the name of the yoga pose that looks like “soldier?”Correct = Do a 20 seconds Tree poseWrong = Do 5 push up from the ground into Plank, and 3 situps. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first …

Read more

Sharks 12/18/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FLY K on back with FINS 2 x 25 Position 11 FINS Question of the Day: Where can you do the 1 hour Laps for Coho make up swim?Correct = 50 FREE FINS Wrong = 50 BK K FINS 4 x 25 on 1:00 FR K no board FINS HLBw/R …

Read more

Minnows 12/18/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What pool can you do the 1 hour Laps for Coho makeup?Correct = Do 25 using two-foot jumps Wrong = do 25 two feet jumps and 5 sit squat and stands Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) …

Read more

Minnows 12/17/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Can you still do a 1 hour Laps for Coho Swim? Yes or No?Correct = Roll on the floor sideways three times.Wrong = Do 2 somersaults and 5 situps Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your …

Read more

Sharks 12/16/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FLY K w/ FINS 2 x 25 Position 11 w/ FINS Question of the Day: What was the average number of lengths a Sharks swimmer swam at Laps for Coho?Correct = 50 CH no BR w/ FINSWrong = 50 FLY K w/ FINS 4 x 25 on 1:00 FREE K …

Read more

Minnows 12/16/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What was the average number of lengths Minnows swam at Laps for Coho?Correct = Do 40 hops on one foot, can switch feetWrong = Do 40 hops on one foot, can switch feet and 3 situps and 3 pushups. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. …

Read more

Lesson 12/12/2019

Activity 1: Activity 2: Challenge: Activity 1: Activity 2: Challenge: Activity 1: 1 x 25 FREE with side breaths1 x 25 BK K Activity 2: Swim FREE to 1/2 way working on side breathing and looking down with face. Challenge: Swim instructor’s choice!

Sharks 12/12/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FREE K w/ board w/ FINS 2 x 25 Position 11 w/ FINS Question of the Day: What is the maximum number of lengths you can swim at Laps for Coho?Correct = 50 CH FINSWrong = 50 FLY K w/ FINS 4 x 25 on 1:00 FREE K with board …

Read more

Minnows 12/12/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What is the highest number of lengths you can get at Laps for Coho?Correct = 20 jumps while clapping in celebrationWrong = 40 jumps while making a sad face and then 2 sit-ups. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before …

Read more

Sharks 12/11/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FLY K with FINS 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What prize do you get for raising $100 for Laps for Coho?Correct = 50 CHWrong = 50 FLY K on back 4 x 25 on 1:00 FREE with FINS Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group …

Read more

Minnows 12/11/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: At what dollar raised amount do you earn your first Laps for Coho Prize? Correct = Strut around wearing a beltWrong = Slink on the ground b/c your pants fell down without a belt and do 3 push ups. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. …

Read more

Parent-Tot 12/7/2019

Do all things as a group. Announce the activity, give an example and have them do it on their own or with you for support. Be confident. They should know most of these things. Hokey Pokey Stand in a circle. Everyone sings. Instructor leads. Last thing of the day “You put your [right leg] in,You …

Read more

Lessons 12/5/2019

Activity 1: Activity 2: Challenge: Activity 1: 3 x Back Glide Glide on back to the flags, then do anything on the way back. Activity 2: Challenge: 1 x 25 FREE with side breathing1 x 25 BK with body flat, feet kicking, arms moving, chin slightly tucked in.

Sharks 12/5/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 CH 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: When your parents count for you at Laps for Coho, do they count by 2’s or 1’s? (2, 4, 6, 8, etc, OR 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, etc)Correct = 50 FLY KWrong = 50 BK K with whole hands …

Read more

Minnows 12/5/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: When your parents count your “laps” do they count by 2’s or by 1’s? (1, 2, 3, 4, etc, or 2, 4, 6, 8)Correct = Bounce around on both feet for 20 hopsWrong = Bounce around on both feet for 20 hops + 2 situps and 2 pushups. Warmup …

Read more

Sharks 12/4/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BK K 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: Who counts your laps, or lengths at the Laps for Coho event? Correct = 50 Steps of runningWrong = 50 BK K 4 x 25 on 1:00 BK Split up into two groups: Group 1: 3 streamlines. 1 at …

Read more

Minnows 12/4/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Who counts your laps, or lengths at the Laps for Coho event?Correct = Count your breaths for 10 seconds.Wrong = Count your breaths for 10 seconds after doing 3 situps. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock …

Read more

Sharks 12/3/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BR K on back 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: Do you have to raise money to participate in the 1 hour swim at Laps for Coho?Correct = 50 CHWrong = 50 FR 4 x 25 on 1:00 FR K with board. Split up into two groups: …

Read more

Minnows 12/3/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Do you *have* to raise money to swim for 1 hour at Laps for Coho?Correct = Do 1 lap throwing money in the airWrong = Do 1 lap picking up money from the floor and do 3 pushups. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review …

Read more

Sharks 12/2/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FREE K 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What is Laps for Coho?Correct = 50 CHWrong = 50 FLY K 4 x 25 on 1:00 FLY K Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together into one group Laps for Coho Test SET: …

Read more

Minnows 12/2/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What is Laps for Coho?Correct = Do 1 lap runningWrong = do 1 running lap and 5 situps. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze your ears (back of head).3) Look down (with your …

Read more

Thanksgiving Week Minnows 11/26/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Do Turkeys swim?Correct = 3 gobbling Push upsWrong = 3 gobbling push-ups and 3 gobbling sit-ups. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze your ears (back of head).3) Look down (with your whole face).Review …

Read more

Thanksgiving week Minnows 11/25/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What is Coach Jeff’s Favorite Thanksgiving feast food?Correct = 2 Gobble gobble pushupsWrong = 2 Gobble gobble pushups and 2 Gobble gobble situps Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze your ears (back of …

Read more

Sharks 11/21/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BK 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What does not move when you swim Backstroke?Correct = 50 CHWrong = 50 BK K 4 x 25 on 1:00 BK w/ SL underwater: challenge, to the flags underwater. Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back …

Read more

Minnows 11/21/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Flip turns are for which stroke(s)?Correct = 2 jumps with a silly poseWrong = 1 sullen, sad, jump. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze your ears (back of head).3) Look down (with your …

Read more

Lessons 11/21/2019

Activity 1: Activity 2: 3 x SL + 3 FREE Strong freestyle kick throughout.Focus on arms reaching to 11, head aiming straight down, and power with each stroke. If possible NO breath. Challenge: Activity 1: Activity 2: Challenge: 1 x 25 FREE Kick with board1 x 25 BACK Kick with board Activity 1: 3 x …

Read more

Sharks 11/20/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BK 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: When you do a flip turn, what position should you be in when your feet hit the wall?Correct = 50 FR w/ a flip turnWrong = 50 BK w/ a flip turn 4 x 25 on 1:00 BK Split up …

Read more

Minnows 11/20/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: When diving in, should you lock your thumbs before your hands touch the water?Correct = 2 jumps with a goofy poseWrong = 2 x Streamlines in deep end. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) …

Read more

Sharks 11/18/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BK K 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: Is chocolate milk a good choice to drink immediately after swim practice? https://www.swimmingscience.net/is-chocolate-milk-an-adequate-recovery-aid-for-swimmers/ Correct = 50 CHWrong = 50 FLY K no board. 4 x 25 on 1:00 FREEStreamline to the flags, make the interval, finish by touching the …

Read more

Minnows 11/18/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Is chocolate milk a good choice to drink immediately after swim practice? https://www.swimmingscience.net/is-chocolate-milk-an-adequate-recovery-aid-for-swimmers/ Correct = 25 AnythingWrong = 25 BK K Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze your ears (back of head).3) Look …

Read more

Sharks 11/15/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FLY K 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: Is a dive like a streamline? Yes or No?Correct = 50 CHWrong = 50 BK K 4 x 25 on 1:00 FLY K no board. Split up into two groups: Activity 1: 1 x 300 FREE1 x 200 BK1 …

Read more

Minnows 11/15/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Is a dive like a streamline? Yes or No?Correct = Do 2 cannonballsWrong = Do 2 sad jumps and 3 push ups. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze your ears (back of head).3) …

Read more

Lesson 11/14/2019

Activity 1: 3 x Streamline with FREE kicks. Goal to get to the yellow.Start on right hand side of the lane, push off underwater, and stay in streamline at surface for a little bit. Activity 2: 3 x SL + 3 FREE Strong freestyle kick throughout.Focus on arms reaching to 11, head aiming straight down, …

Read more

Sharks 11/14/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BK 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: Where did Coach Jeff go on vacation?Correct = 50 Cactus swim: FR or BK or FLY with Spikey finger and toesWrong = 50 BK 4 x 25 on 1:00 BK Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get …

Read more

Minnows 11/14/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: If you go on vacation what do you have to wear so that your picture gets put on the Coho Facebook page.Correct = 3 Selfie posesWrong = 1 selfie pose plus 3 situps. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before …

Read more

Minnows 11/13/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Must you go off the blocks at a swim meet? (no).Correct = Hold plank for 10 seconds Wrong = Hold plank for 10 seconds, do 2 pushups and 2 situps. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock …

Read more

Sharks 11/12/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FR Kick no board 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What is the youngest age you can join COHO? (5)Correct = 50 ChWrong = 50 BK 4 x 25 on 1:00 BK Aerobic and Learning: 1 x 100 FREE2 x SL + 1 x (11, Eat and …

Read more

Minnows 11/12/19

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Coach’s ChoiceCorrect = Laugh like an evil goblinWrong = Do 5 pushups while evil goblins dance. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze your ears (back of head).3) Look down (with your whole face).Review …

Read more

Sharks 11/7/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FLY Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What does the LONG whistle mean at a swim meet?Correct = 50 CHWrong = 50 BK 4 x 25 on 1:00 2 strokes FLY + FR the rest. Aerobic practice: 5 x 100 Odds FREE, Evens BACK 5 x …

Read more

Minnows 11/7/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: How many yards long is each DHS pool lane?Correct = 25 hops on both feetWrong = 25 hops on each foot, one at a time. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze your ears …

Read more

Sharks 11/6/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BK 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What does HLBw/R mean?Correct = 50 CHWrong = 50 HLB w/ R 4 x 25 on 1:00 BK, make the interval! Split up into two groups: 3 x SL + 1 FLY stroke with no kick. Push water down, sweep …

Read more

Minnows 11/6/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: How many yards are in a 500 yard freestyle?Correct = 5 jumps with high knees.Wrong = 5 jumps with high knees and a 30 second plank. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze your …

Read more

Sharks 11/4/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FR 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: How many breaths can you take between the flags and the wall in Freestyle during a “victory finish?”Correct = 50 FRWrong = 50 BK 4 x 25 on 1:00 FR with victory finishes Split up into two groups: Group 1: …

Read more

Minnows 11/4/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: How many breaths can you take on freestyle during a “victory finish?”Correct = 3 jumps without a breathWrong = 3 jumps without a breath and 3 situps. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze …

Read more

Building swim lesson plans

You can create fun and effective swim lesson plans with some basic tools, but if you want to really increase your game, improve your program and get the most out of your swim lessons and developmental swim practices the best thing to do is join the Developmental Swim Practice subscription so you can mix and …

Read more

Minnows 10/29/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What is a “heat” at a swim meet?Correct = Line up and do 2 heats of run from line to line.Wrong = Same as correct + 2 situps and 2 pushups. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11 Zombie! Review 3 things for Streamline before first …

Read more

Sharks 10/29/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 Coffin Kick or Crusty Zombie swim 2 x 25 Position 11 ZOMBIE! Question of the Day: What strokes MUST touch the wall with two hands, at the same time?Correct = 50 Scary eye’d BR, where your eyes never go underwater.Wrong = 50 Coffin Kick 4 x 25 on 1:00 2 …

Read more

Sharks 10/28/2019 Halloween Week

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 Halloween Haunt: swim underwater and say “boo!” when you come to the surface. Swim with only eyes showing above water. 2 x 25 Position 11 Zombie Question of the Day: Can you wear your Halloween Costume during your swim at the Wednesday meet? Correct = 50 Swim like your Halloween …

Read more

Minnows 10/28/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Can you wear your Halloween Costume during your swim at the Wednesday meet?Correct = Pretend like you are the costume you’re going as.Wrong = Do 3 push-ups and 3 situps like you’re the character your costume is. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11 Zombie. Review …

Read more

Sharks 10/24/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 IM 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What stroke (s) does HLBw/R Drill work on?Correct = 50 FR or BKWrong = 50 FR K or BK K no board. 4 x 25 on 1:00 FLY K no board. Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: …

Read more

Minnows 10/24/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What strokes does HLBw/R Drill work on?Correct = Twelve twisting spinsWrong = Ten twisting spins (hips) + 3 situps Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze your ears (back of head).3) Look down (with …

Read more

Sharks 10/22/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FLY K on back 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What should you rotate to make your freestyle breathing better?Correct = 50 FRWrong = 50 BK 4 x 25 on 1:00 BK K no board. Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together …

Read more

Minnows 10/22/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What can you rotate to make breathing to the side in freestyle easier?Correct = 6 twirling spinsWrong = 6 spins + 4 situps Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze your ears (back of …

Read more

Sharks 10/21/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FLY K w/ FINS 2 x 25 Position 11 w/ FINS Question of the Day: What does Coho do at Halloween hoopla?Correct = 50 CHWrong = 50 FLY K no fins 4 x 25 on 1:00 FR K w/ FINS Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get …

Read more

Minnows 10/21/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What does Coho do at Halloween Hoopla?Correct = Do 3 pushups and pretend like you’re giving directions at a game.Wrong = Do 3 pushups and 3 situps Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze …

Read more

Using a TV at swimming

I’ve always felt that one of the biggest impediment to using technology on the pool deck was getting it to work quickly. swimminglessonsideas.com has been an excellent resource and tool I frequent when I’m running swim lessons or training new staff. Recently I purchased a television and mounted it on wheels so that I could …

Read more

Sharks 10/18/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FLY K w/ FINS 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: How many yards away from the wall are the flags?Answer: Y = 50 FLY w/ FINSN = 50 FLY K no fins 4 x 25 on 1:00 FR FINS Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group …

Read more

Minnows 10/18/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: How many yards away from the wall are the flags?Answer: 5 yards!Y = 5 Flapping arm jumpsN = 5 flapping arm jumps, 5 situps. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze your ears (back …

Read more

Sharks 10/17/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FLY K 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What happens if you don’t touch the far wall when you do your turn in a 50 FR at a swim meet?Answer: You get disqualified! Y = 50 FR with a flip turn N = 50 BK 4 x …

Read more

Minnows 10/17/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What happens if you don’t touch the far wall when you do your turn in a 50 FR at a swim meet?Answer: You get disqualified!Y = Touch the wall with both feet or your hand 10 quick times.N = Touch the wall with both feet or your hand 10 …

Read more

Sharks 10/16/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 Bk arms with breaststroke kick. On back. 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: must you got off the blocks at a swim meet during your event, ghat isn’t backstroke?Answer: no! You are allowed to go off the side, or start in the water, but you should start …

Read more

Minnows 10/16/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Must you dive off the blocks at a swim meet?Answer: No! You’re allowed to use the side of the pool, get in the water, or dive off the side. You get to choose. Y = 2 jumps in the air as high as you can N = 2 jumps …

Read more

Sharks 10/15/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 2 fly + fly kick the rest of each 25 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: Are goggles a part of your swim uniform?Answer: Yes! They are considered a part of your uniform just like your suit. Y = 50 ChN = 50 BK no goggles and …

Read more

Minnows 10/15/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Are goggles a part of your swim uniform?Answer: Yes! And if you have a challenge or difficulty with them before a meet you’re allowed to adjust before they start the race. Y = roll on the floor three rolls and retry your suit, or snap your straps twice. N …

Read more

Sharks 10/11/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BR K 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: The feet push the water with the inside of the foot on which stroke’s kick?Answer: Breaststroke!Y = 50 BRN = 50 BK 4 x 25 on 1:00 BK Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back …

Read more

Minnows 10/11/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Name two things you can do to do a flip?Answer: Tuck your chin, lift your hips.Y = Roll on the floor like a ball.N = Roll on the floor like a ball and do 3 push-ups. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things …

Read more

Sharks 10/10/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FREE 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What strokes must you touch the wall with both hands at the same time on?Answer: Fly and BRY = 50 Fly or BRN = 50 Free 4 x 25 on 1:00 FREE Split up into two groups: Group 1: 3 …

Read more

Minnows 10/10/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: How many yards are in a 500 yard freestyle?Answer: 500Y = 100 footstepsN = 100 footsteps + 5 situps Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) Squeeze your ears (back of head).3) Look down (with …

Read more

Sharks 10/7/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 Br kick on back no knees over the surface 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: How do you officially know that you were disqualified at a swim meet?Answer: The official raises their hand and your coach gets a dq slipY = 50 choice anything anything, walk swim …

Read more

Minnows 10/7/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: How do you know officially that you were disqualified at a swim meet?Answer: You see the officials hand go up, and then you get dq slipY = 10 raise your hand into position 11 from soldierN = Same, plus 5 sit-ups Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 …

Read more

Sharks 10/4/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 Bk 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What is the correct way the officials will blow the whistles and start a race?Answer: 5 short whistle, 1 long whistles, take your mark, beenY = 50 chN = 50 bk k 4 x 25 on 1:00 Free Split up …

Read more

Minnows 10/4/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: which event start is correct. Coach blows the whistle 5 short times, one long time, then says, take. Your mark, then blows the whistle again. coach then does 3 short whistle blasts then two long ones and says, take your mark, get set, go!Answer: First optionY = 5 jumps …

Read more

Sharks 10/3/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 Back 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: how many short whistles are there before the long whistle at a swim meet?Answer: Y = 50 ChN = 50 Fly kick 4 x 25 on 1:00 Fly kick with fins Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: …

Read more

Minnows 10/3/2019

Dryland Activities: Dryland – Grow into Streamline On deck have everyone squat to the floor. Do 3 – 5 times. Tiring. Keep the back as straight as possible. Put their hands on their head like the picture. Stand into streamline. “Grow from a tiny sprout into a tall reaching streamline.” Locked thumb Squeezed ears Face …

Read more

Sharks 10/1/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BK K 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What does the long whistle mean at a swim meet?Answer: Get ready, get on the block, get in the water, get ready to do your start.Y = 50 FREEN = 50 BK 4 x 25 on 1:00 FR K …

Read more

Minnows 10/1/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What does the LONG whistle mean before a race at a swim meet?Answer: “Get ready,” or “get on the block,” or “get ready to dive in.”Y = Do 3 Streamline starts from the groundN = Do 5 excellent pushups from belly on the ground to plank. Warmup in water: …

Read more

Should your swim instructor be “polite?”

This weekend we had our first swim lessons of the fall season. Septemeber and October are extremely difficult times of the year. If you have a large high school staff then many of your employees are likely burned out from the summer by the end of the year work and struggle to fully staff you …

Read more

Sharks 9/26/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 Free 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: How many yards are there between the flags (middle of the pool)?Answer: 15 yards. 5 yards each from wall to flags. Y = 50 FLY KN = 50 BK K 4 x 25 on 1:00 FR Split up into two …

Read more

Minnows 9/26/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: In this pool, how many yards is between the flags?Answer: in a 25-yard pool it is 15 yards from flag to flag in the middle of the pool.Y = 1 walking lap around the pool. Count number of starting blocks.N = 15 situps and count number of lanes. Warmup …

Read more

Sharks 9/25/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FR 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What are three things to make swimming better?Answer: Keep your body straight, Kick faster when you breathe, make it a quick breath.Y = 50 CHN = 50 FR 4 x 25 on 1:00 FR K no board Split up into …

Read more

Minnows 9/25/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What are the three things to make a streamline better?Answer: lock your thumb, squeeze your ears, look down Y = Do 3 of any, sit-up, push-up, or sit-up.N = do 10 sit-ups. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first …

Read more

Sharks 9/24/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FLY K 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What direction should the thumbs aim when you recover in butterfly?Y = 50 FLY KN = 50 BK K 4 x 25 on 1:00 FR K w/ boards Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back …

Read more

Minnows 9/24/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Where does the freestyle arm stroke begin and end?Answer: In position 11Y = Flap your armslike a bird 10 times while jumping.N = Hold position 11 while doing 20 FR kicks laying on the ground. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for …

Read more

Sharks 9/23/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BK K w/ FINS 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: How many kicks should you do per arm stroke in freestyle?Answer: 6 per arm stroke for a six-beat kickY = Do 6 pitter-patter feet per arm stroke while walking from black to blackN = Do 60 little …

Read more

Minnows 9/23/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: How many kicks should you do per arm stroke in freestyle?Answer: 6 per arm stroke for a six-beat kickY = Do 6 pitter patter feet per arm stroke while walking from black to blackN = Do 60 little kicks while laying on back with feet off the ground. Warmup …

Read more

Help teach streamline better

When you do streamline like a thousand times, a hundred thousand, then you forget that it can be difficult for beginners to do well. I work with kids that are transitioning from swim lessons into swim team. They don’t know how to push off in streamline. What comes naturally for me, now, is totally foreign …

Read more

Sharks 9/17/2019

*ADAPTED PRACTICE* Coach called in sick, one coach for 25 kids. Distance and endurance without splitting into two groups. Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 IM SWIM 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What type of kicks should you do on EVERY streamline except BR?Answer: Fly kicksY = 50 CH N = 50 …

Read more

Minnows 9/17/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What does Perpendicular mean?Answer: At a right angle to something else. Or Pushing directly sideways out of a flat line. LY = Walk in Airplane for 2 black lines to black lines.N = HOLD a V shape with only your butt touching the gound for 7 seconds. Warmup in …

Read more

Sharks 9/16/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FR K no board 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What target should you aim for in EVERY pool when doing a streamline?Answer: The flags.Y = 50 CH with long streamline0N = 50 Bk K 4 x 25 on 1:00 FR K with Board Split up into …

Read more

Minnows 9/16/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: Where should you streamline to in THIS pool?Answer: Somewhere between the yellow and the first white discs (flags).Y = Black line to black line 2 x with noodly armsN = Black line to black line 2 x with streamline arms. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position …

Read more

Sharks 9/12/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BK K no board 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What are the three words that define what Coho wants to foster?Y = 50 CHN = 50 BK 4 x 25 on 1:00 FINS fly K Split up into two groups: Group 1: 3 x SL + …

Read more

Minnows 9/12/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What are three words we want to see and develop on Coho?Answer: Spirit, Character, PrideY = Walk like you’re a proud King or Queen with chin high and chest full 3 lapsN = cower and do 3 timid frightened sit-ups and then 4 trembling arm and belly push-ups. Warmup …

Read more

Minnows 9/10/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: How many yards is it from the wall to the flags?Answer: 5 yardsY = 3 yelling barks or cries of any animal while doing 3 jumping jacks.N = 10 jumps in place and 5 sit-ups. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for …

Read more

Sharks 9/9/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FLY K with FINS 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: Can you do an open turn in Freestyle and NOT get DQ’d?Y = 50 FR with flip turnN = 50 FLY K 4 x 25 on 1:00 Fly 2 strokes with FINS and FR the rest Split …

Read more

Minnows 9/9/2019

Dryland Activities: Question of the Day: What strokes does Position 11 work on?Answer: Fly, Bk, BR, FR (all!)Y = Roll sideways three times (full rolls) N = Do 30 jumps and 5 sit ups. Warmup in water: 100 IM Kick2 x 25 position 11. Review 3 things for Streamline before first 25.1) Lock your thumb.2) …

Read more

Sharks 9/5/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BK 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: Name one way to get disqualified on ButterflyY = 50 CHN = 50 FLY kick 4 x 25 on 1:00 FR K Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together into one group 3 x { …

Read more

Minnows 9/5/2019

Dryland Activities: Mirror dancing. Move your belly, your posture, and your limbs while looking at yourself. Game/Challenge: Question of the Day: What are the two main strokes we learn in Minnows?Answer: Free and BackstrokeY = Do 3 different animal noises while walking black line to black lineN = Do 10 sit-ups. Warmup in water: 100 …

Read more

Sharks 9/4/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 Fly kick no board 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: When do you finish your last stroke on freestyle before a flip turn?Answer: at the “T” markY = 50 FRN = 50 BK K 4 x 25 on 1:00 FREE Split up into two groups: Group 1: …

Read more

Minnows 9/4/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What do you do first when you push off the wall?Answer: StreamlineY = 10 hops on one foot.N = 5 streamline squat and jumps Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together into one group 2 x 25 …

Read more

Sharks 9/3/2019

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FREE Long and easy 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What does “IM” stand for.Y = 50 7 free + flipN = 50 BK 4 x 25 on 1:00 FR Kick w/ board Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together into one …

Read more

Pre-Tryout Clinic Day 3

1 x 25 Backstroke Kick get in and go Question of the Day: Why are there flags above the pool?Y= 1 jump off blocksN = One time lay on the bottom of the pool on your back Challenge: Kick in water over head with both arms above water in position 11 for 3 seconds. And …

Read more

Pre-Tryout Clinic Day 2

Introduce the “Flow” 2 x 25 1= FREE 2 = BK Question of the Day: What strokes use “flutter kick?” Y = 1 jump off block N = 4 spins with nothing touching in the shallow end. 1 x 25 FR with side breathing

Pre-Tryout Clinic Day 1

Warmup Jump in and run or swim to 1/2 way in Mini lane as fast as possible. Get out. On deck, review “setting up your lane:” Get in and set up your lane. 3 x do a streamline off the wall. When you stop, or take a breath, move over and set up your lane. …

Read more

Manager Training Tips going into Fall .2019

Summer is about to finish most swim professionals, aquatic professionals, are wrapping up their summer outdoor programs in the United States. That means we are struggling to find staff after our college workers had gone back to school and our high school staff is left covering the same pools with fewer people and an additional …

Read more

7/15/2019 Sharks

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BR Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: How many lanes were at the Coho Classic?Y = 50 CHN = 50 BK 4 x 25 on 1:00 FR Speedplay Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together into one group 12 x 25 …

Read more

7/15/2019 Minnows

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: At the Coho Classic how many lanes were there to compete in? 6Y = 25 Dive and swim freeN = 25 push off wall and swim back Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together into one group

7/11/2019 Sharks

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FLY KICK 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: Y = 50 BR Arms with FREE kickN = 50 FR Arms with Fly kick 4 x 25 on 1:00 2 FLy + FR rest Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together into one …

Read more

7/10/2019 Sharks

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 Bk 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: If you fall in before the beep at a meet can you climb out and get back on the block? “Yes if the officials let you. No if you get disqualified.” Y = 25 Dive FR with Fly kickN = …

Read more

7/10/2019 Minnows

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: If you fall in before the beep at a meet can you climb out and get back on the block? “Yes if the officials let you. No if you get disqualified.”Y = 25 Dive in and swim FR w/ fly kickN = …

Read more

7/9/2019 Sharks

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BK 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What does LCM mean? Long course meters.Y = 50 CH anythingN = 50 Fly Kick 4 x 25 on 1:00 2 fly + free rest Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together into one group …

Read more

7/9/2019 Minnows

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What does LCM mean? “Long course meters”Y = 25 jump and Anything swimN = 25 push off side and backstroke swim Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: 3 x SL on belly + 3 HLBw/R Head Lead Balance with …

Read more

7/2/2019 Minnows

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: How does locking your thumb help your streamline?Y = 25 BK KN = 25 Doggie paddle Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together into one group

7/1/2019 Sharks

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 CH 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: How do you explode like a firework off the blocks?Y = 50 CHN = 50 BK 4 x 25 on 1:00 FLY K Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together into one group 10 x …

Read more

6/20/2019 Minnows

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: At a swim meet name one way you can get DQ’dY = 25 Dive and swim CHN = 25 Sit and slide in and swim BK Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together into one group

6/18/2019 Minnows

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: At a swim meet what tells you to “get on the blocks?”Y = Jump + FR to 1/2 wayN = Push off wall + FR to 1/2 way Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together into one …

Read more

6/17/2019 Minnows

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What is a swim meet?Y = Jump off block like a trickN = Push off side and swim to 1/2 way FR. Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together into one group

5/29/2019 Minnows

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What does “bilateral” breathing mean? Breathing to both sides on freestyle.Y = 25 FR (breathe every three but don’t write this part out)N = 50 FLY K Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: 3 x Dive from side, SL …

Read more

5/23/2019 Minnows

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What is an “undulation?” Whole body roll like a fly kick starting at chest and flowing through toes.Y = Walk while undulating like seaweed with legs trying to leave the water.N = Flop on the ground like limp seaweed or a fish …

Read more

5/20/2019 Sharks

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BK 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: Name two yoga poses that help your swimming.Y = 50 CHN = 50 Position 11 4 x 25 on 1:00 FR Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together into one group 1 x { 2 …

Read more

5/16/2019 Minnows

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What is the third thing we look for regarding excellent swimming, “Posture, Line, and _________?” Answer: Balance.Y = Balance on 1 foot for as long as it takes you to sing happy birthdayN = Walk with perfect posture for 2 large squares …

Read more

5/15/2019 Minnows

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What is the fastest stroke in swimming? What is the slowest? Fast = Front crawl, Slow= BreaststrokeY = 50 CHN = 50 BK Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together into one group

5/9/2019 Sharks

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BR K on BK 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: Buoyancy is how much you float, drag slows you down, what can you do to go forward easier? Y = 50 CHN = 50 Underwater swimming breathe as much as you want 4 x 25 on 1:00 …

Read more

5/8/2019 Minnows

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What is “drag” and how does it affect your swimming?Y = Sit on floor with excellent streamline arms and back, legs crossed. Minimize dragN = Drag your body along the black line pressing as much as your self to the floor as …

Read more

5/7/2019 Sharks

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 Coach’s Choice 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: Where is your center of buoyancy? Or balance point on your body where you float? Just above the belly button Y = 50 Front float on surface 2 seconds, FLY kick to bottom, repeat, finding your buoyancy each time …

Read more

5/6/2019 Minnows

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What does the word “buoyancy” mean? Like your “center of buoyancy in the water.” A: the ability or tendency to float in water or air or some other fluid. Y = Bouncy like you’re buoyant around the room.N = Sink like a …

Read more

5/2/2019 Minnows

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: When is a streamline a glide? (what stroke). During initial BR SLY = run around box one time flapping arms like wingsN = 5 streamline jumps from a squat and 5 sit ups Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: …

Read more

4/30/2019 Minnows

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: How many Streamlines are in a 100 FR? 4!Y = Do 4 streamline jumps from a squat on the floor where you can touch the floor with your hands easily.N = Do 8 streamline jumps Split up into two groups: Group 1: …

Read more

4/29/2019 Sharks

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 HLBw/R on BK 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: Can you push off on your side at a swim meet during Backstroke?Y = 50 CHN = 50 BK 4 x 25 on 1:00 FR Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together into …

Read more

4/29/2019 Minnows

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: At a swim meet can you begin in the water? YESY = Roll like a log across the floor 3 times and do 2 jumps as high as you canN = Do 10 situps and 5 jumps as high as you can …

Read more

4/25/2019 Sharks

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 FLY K FINS 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What is an “undulation?”Y = 50 FLY K w/ FINSN = 50 BK no fins 4 x 25 on 1:00 FR K w/ board Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together into one …

Read more

4/25/2019 Minnows

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What should your feet be like when you do freestyle or backstroke kick? Floppy!Y = Flop like a fish out of water for 10 secondsN = Walk in three squares in Soldier, 11, and Airplane Split up into two groups: Group 1: …

Read more

4/23/2019 Minnows

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What kicks should you do during streamline for FLY, BK, BR, FR?Y = 2 cartwheels, 1 hand stand attempt, 1 chaturangaN = 10 situps, 5 pushups. 1 hand stand attempt Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together …

Read more

4/22/2019 Minnows

Warmup 100 IM Kick 2 x 25 Position 11 Question of the Day: What is more powerful, pushing off with one foot, or two feet when you SL?Y = Spin in a circle, and then walk along line for 10 steps without falling off.N = Spin two times. Do two pushups, spin 2 times do …

Read more

Drills for swim teams you might be skipping

I get the feeling sometimes when I’m coaching or teaching a swim lesson that I’m wasting time. Sometimes I feel like when parents see me doing “floats” with their advanced swimmers, or doing a challenge where they do a front float, flip, then do a handstand we’re playing games without a purpose. If you’ve followed …

Read more

Swim Lessons and Hypotonia

Hypotonia is a condition commonly known as “floppy baby.” I found the wikipedia entry to be excellent and drastically expanded my understanding of the condition when working with swimmers. Looking back, I know that this is what one family tried to tell me about that i didn’t realize the full extent of. A reader sent …

Read more

4/8/19 Sharks

Warmup 100 IM Kick 100 BK Question of the Day: How long is Deerspring pool, the big one? 50 meters.Y = 50 Choice, fly, bk, br, or frN = 50 FLY K no board 4 x 25 on 1:00 FR K w/ boad Split up into two groups: Group 1: Group 2: Get back together …

Read more

Swimming Game – Give a Gift, Take a Swim

Category: Group activity, Social Core Skill: Coach’s choice Name: Valentine’s Day Practice I like to do different things for the holidays. Most of the kids that participate on our swim team are in grade school or middle school. They’re somewhere between 5 years old and 13 on the developmental swim team. For Valentine’s Day I …

Read more

SIP 081: Sun protection for swim instructors

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_081.mp3″ title=”SIP 081: Sun protection for swim instructors” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] SUN SCREEN! SUN LOTION! SUN BLOCK! This is the most essential product you can buy. I’m talking about sun tan lotion. Sun block. We use this gallon jug. You can use this too. I suggest making it mandatory for all swim instructors to …

Read more

SIP 080: Brief Autism Overview

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_080.mp3″ title=”SIP 080: Brief Autism Overview” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] Looking at the American Red Cross website I was looking for level updates and structure. I found their Swimming Water Safety book, and on page 170 and 171 their information on Autism! A lot of people have been asking for guides on how to deal …

Read more

SIP 079: Do you need to license a swim program to be successful?

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_079.mp3″ title=”SIP 079: Do you need to license a swim program to be successful?” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] No. Most parents don’t care what your swim program system is. They care about three things:   1) Will their child learn how to swim? 2) Does it fit into their schedule? 3) Is it within their …

Read more

SIP 078: Central States Clinic Part 3

http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_078.mp3 [smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_078.mp3″ artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] Dr. Alan Goldberg,  www.competitivedge.com Getting parents to work with, not against you.   Blog post about day 1 handout. https://www.swimminglessonsideas.com/2017/09/17/handout-for-first-day-of-swim-lessons-for-parents-what-to-expect/ Day 2 handouts: https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/completelessondocuments/Administration/Day+2+Handouts+(1).pdf   Be proactive. How to teach your parents on your swim team. Learn how to interact with your swim lesson parents in a healthy way. …

Read more

SIP 075: Swim team tryout script

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_075.mp3″ title=”SIP 075: Swim team tryout script” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] Ok. The first thing is to get in the water.   The second thing to do is to touch the bottom with your hand.   Easy? Easy peezy?   Now we’re going to swim front crawl or freestyle with side breathing from here to …

Read more

SIP 074: A quick update and a reminder about routine

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_074.mp3″ title=”SIP 074: A quick update and reminder about routine” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] i’ll be interviewing a person about how to teach swimming lessons to autistic kids. She is an expert in adaptive physical education for special needs children and will be an excellent resource. I’m hoping to connect with Nitro tash to get …

Read more

SIP 073: What to do when veteran staff suck

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_073.mp3″ title=”SIP 073: What to do when veteran staff suck” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] Give initial feedback. Restrain anger and disappointment. Immediate debrief and followup. Frame things in the future. next time do this. Retrain. Deal with it in private.

SIP 072: Breathing for two weeks

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_072.mp3″ title=”SIP 072: Breathing for two weeks” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] Lots of talk about breath; on land, in the water, in small groups, and over short distances.   Most effective initially with short distances, and constant discussion about it. Some level of attenuation.   Lean what we do in dryland, and in our small …

Read more

SIP 071: Activity, Activity, Challenge

Get ready to experience the next supplemental guide for better swim lessons! We’ve been refining the general format of our swim lessons. Ever forward, and ever working on refinement we’ve been teaching lessons using this new take on an old favorite.   For a long time we’ve incorporated the “learn something, learn something, play a …

Read more

SIP 070: What you need to start teaching swimming

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_070.mp3″ title=”SIP 070: What you need to start teaching swimming” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] Question from John from the UK. He asked me very generally what he could do to get started. He had bought the swimming ideas lesson plans which you can get here: https://www.swimminglessonsideas.com/store/   But he was uncertain in how to start teaching …

Read more

SIP 069: Foundational Breathing Method for swimming

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/069.mp3″ title=”SIP 069: Foundational Breathing Method for swimming; a conversation with Dominic Latella from theswimbox.com” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] A conversation with Dominic Latella from theswimbox.com Check out the course, Foundational Breathing Method for swimming here: https://www.theswimbox.com/online-courses/ We talk about a lot of different things regarding swimming. Dominic lets us know some details about his …

Read more

SIP 068: Is it okay to just play games with 3 year olds?

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_068.mp3″ title=”SIP 068: Is it okay to just play games with 3 year olds?” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] Yes! It is okay to play games with 3 year olds, and I would even say that you should be playing mostly games and singing songs with your youngest participants. When they’re comfortable enough to trust you …

Read more

SIP 067: Deliberate Practice

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_067.mp3″ title=”SIP 067: Deliberate Practice” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] Finding deliberate practice in swim lessons and on developmental swim teams.   What is it:   James Clear:   https://jamesclear.com/beginners-guide-deliberate-practice   https://jamesclear.com/deliberate-practice-theory   Deliberate practice refers to a special type of practice that is purposeful and systematic. While regular practice might include mindless repetitions, deliberate practice …

Read more

Swimming Game – President’s Day Trivia

Category: Group Activity Core Skill: General Swimming / Quiz Name: President’s Day Trivia This game is actually a trivia portion with a bunch of little mini-games inside of it associated with each President. Holidays are a good excuse to do something different or new.  I remember inventing the baseball swim game for our swim group during the …

Read more

SIP 066: Dryland for swim lessons

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_066.mp3″ title=”SIP 066: Dryland for swim lessons” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] Daily dryland program for the first two groups / considering integrating it into swim lessons as a supplemental class/course. 10-15 minutes Draws heavily on SIP 064: jeff Grace games, and SIP 061 and Foundations of breathing General routine Our “flow” Lay down on your …

Read more

A letter to swim team parents Fall 2017

Fall is over. The first season of the 2017-2018 swim year. Can you believe that it has been 14 weeks already? Fun fact, new research shows that repetition, doing the same thing every day, makes you perceive time moving faster. When you do something new and different you perceive that time moves slower. A good …

Read more

Swimming Game – Streamline Line Walk

Category: Group Activity Core Skill: Dryland / Core Strength / Streamline Name: [Streamline] Line Walk     Ideas come from many different areas. This game was inspired by talking with another coach about her exercise training she was doing at her gym. The basic concept is like what I call an “indian run.” Thought I’m sure there …

Read more

Are you respected or feared?

“Oh my god! Coach Jeff! How are you?” Or the more common smile and hide behind the parent’s leg, but still want to tell me a story in too many random details like children tell stories. That is what I most often hear and see when I run into swimmer families around the community. I …

Read more

Starting a new private swim program

“If you build it, they will come.”  Maybe you’re like me and you remember watching this movie all the time. But was that mantra from the 80’s and 90’s, that iconic saying really true? Can you just “build” something and clients will magically show up? I don’t think so. Swimming Ideas is a business. I …

Read more

First week of Fall 2017 swim team is over.

Finally. I’m done with swim team for this week. I coach two developmental swim groups back to back Monday through Thursday. We have 86 kids this fall in those two groups. It is nuts. How do you handle large groups of kids that don’t know what they’re doing? I like to prepare in advance and …

Read more

Preparing for Fall 2017 Swim Lessons

Most of you are looking at swim lessons starting in the next few weeks. August and September is traditionally when school starts (K-12).  The college kids skate away to their universities, and you’re left with the local population, the local community college, and high school kids to fill your staff holes. Fall is a tough …

Read more

New 2017 Fall swim team season starts today

Summer is officially over for me. That’s right. It is late August, we’re no longer at the outdoor pools, and we’ve already done tryouts. It is time for the new Fall 2017 season! Yikes! Time flies so fast. This is the trello.com board that I publish every week as part of the Complete Swimming Program …

Read more

SIP 064: Yoga for swimmers with Jeff Grace

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_064.mp3″ title=”SIP 064: Finding balance with yoga for swimmers” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] http://www.excelwithgrace.ca/ Jeff Grace Jeff Grace has been involved in the sport of swimming for the last 33 years as an athlete, coach and yoga teacher He swam at a high level as an age grouper in Canada and was part of relay …

Read more

SIP 063: “Failing” for two weeks

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_063.mp3″ title=”SIP 063″ artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] And how it has been fun and full of healthy improvement.   Preface: I run safe and encouraging practices. I get along well with my swimmers and their parents. I can’t think of a time I was upset with a parent that knew me or has watched a …

Read more

When to take a step back

We all make mistakes. I’ve done this before too, and I know there’ll be equally as avoidable mistakes I’ll make in the future. But hopefully we learn from those errors. I watch swim lessons every day, or I am coaching. It is rare that I’m not around a pool. It is what I do. Today, …

Read more

SIP 062: My big swim lesson mistake

How I messed up today doing a dunk. [smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_062.mp3″ title=”SIP 062: My big swim lesson mistake” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] Today is a short podcast about how I failed when taking a child underwater.   I went to the beach with my friend and his family and while swimming with their 3 year old, I …

Read more

SIP 061: Provocative breathing, mediation, and better coaching

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_061.mp3″ title=”SIP 061: Provocative breathing, mediation, and better coaching” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] We want to make swimmers better. I had so much fun talking to Dominic Latella from SwimBox. He said multiple times that making swimmers better is his primary goal. He wants to help people and work with others that share that goal. …

Read more

SIP 060: How to run effective trainings

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_060.mp3″ title=”SIP 060: How to run effective trainings” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] Summer is here with seasonal staff. Are you ready to train them well? The summer is almost upon us and you’re going to start running training classes for your summer and seasonal staff. Slap on the sunscreen, wear a floppy hat, and get …

Read more

SIP 059: Planning at home swim lessons

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_059.mp3″ title=”SIP 059: Planning at home swim lessons” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] An interview with Teresa Stewart of Safe Splashes Swim School in Arizona Safe Splashes Swim School in Arizona with Teresa Stewart safesplashesswim@gmail.com Teresa has been teaching swim lessons most of her life. She uniquely finished her lesson program while young and they made …

Read more

SIP 058: The One Thing

How to be a better coach or instructor [smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_058.mp3″ title=”SIP 058: The One Thing” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] Episode 057 with Meighan Julbert: “Focus on the 2-3 things totally essential for swimmer’s success.”   Episode 055 with Karis Mount: “My coaches focused on the one thing that would make me improve. We were focused.” Episode …

Read more

SIP 057: ‘Failure’ to succeed and parent education

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_057.mp3″ title=”SIP 057: ‘Failure’ to succeed, and parent education” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] An interview with Meighan Julbert, MS from The MindSide Meighan Julbert is a Mental Skills Consultant for The MindSide who brings a passion for understanding how to gain competitive advantages as part of early athletic experiences, through proper structure and coaching of …

Read more

SIP 056: Challenges in Swim Lessons

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_056.mp3″ title=”SIP 056: Challenges in Swim Lessons” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] How to increase learning and interest in your classes Are you in a rut? Have you taught the same lessons over and over for years? They work, they’re great, and they’re interesting for the kids, but how can you amuse yourself and your students …

Read more

Swim Team – Letting swimmers choose

How to give your swimmers the “illusion of choice”   I’ll begin with a story, because people like stories, and the substance of this article will generally be about what we do in our program and how that can serve as a model for others to use. If you didn’t know, I’m the Head Developmental …

Read more

Swim Lesson Update

We had swim lessons yesterday and I wanted to give you an opportunity to learn from good ideas and some mistakes. In reading this you will learn about how we set up a weekday swim lesson that is open to 5-year-olds and older that can go underwater. The goal of this class is to introduce …

Read more

SIP 055: “The one thing,” the Breaststroke kick chair, and games – An interview with Karis Mount

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_055_-_Copy.mp3″ title=”SIP 055: "The One Thing," the BR chair, and games with Karis Mount” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] Everyone has a unique story to tell about their time teaching or participating in swimming. There are lessons to learn from both participants talking about what they went through as swimmers, and stories to remember from people …

Read more

SIP 054: Merging preschool teaching with swim lessons – An interview with Jennifer Butler

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_054.mp3″ title=”SIP 054: An Interview with Jennifer Butler” artist=”Swimming Ideas” ] Swim instruction is teaching Jennifer Butler of Roots Aquatics is awesome. She is an experienced preschool teacher, swimming veteran, and expert swim instructor. Jenn is the Aquatic Coordinator at Roots Aquatics and Fitness Center where she trains lifeguards and swim instructors, teaches lessons, …

Read more

SIP 053: Calling podcast Guests

Are you ready to share your story? [smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_053_1.mp3″ title=”SIP 053″ artist=”Swimming Ideas” ]   You can join the podcast as a guest by submitting a form here: https://goo.gl/forms/1rE1r173RYX6GVgo1   Qualifications: Swimming experience Currently teaching or running swim lessons Swim Coach Involved in swim lesson management or administration   We want to hear your story. What …

Read more

Are your ARC lessons efficient?

The most popular swim lesson program is the American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim. I grew up teaching them, and was even certified as a Water Safety Instructor, ARC’s version for advanced swim instructor training. I remember feeling so official, so empowered and enthusiastic about finally being able to “sign the cards.” And then I filled out …

Read more

Level 4

Swimming Ideas: Level 4 Distance, Competitive, IM Download the Level 4 PDF for your own program. Ages: 5-12+ At this point, in level 4, participants need to be comfortable moving in the water independently. They should be able to swim front crawl with breathing to the side for at least five to ten body lengths without …

Read more

Level 3

Swimming Ideas: Level 3 Breathing, Breaststroke, Fly Download the Level 3 PDF for your own program. Ages: 5-12 Participants in level 3 should be comfortable going underwater on their own, gliding through the water on their front and back without support, and understand the concept of using their arms and feet to provide propulsion, or forward …

Read more

Level 2

Swimming Ideas: Level 2 Streamlines, and the Crawls Download the Level 2 PDF for your own program. Ages: 3-8 Participants should be able to stand on their own, understand language, and have control of their limbs, and ability to follow directions. Swimmer must be able to go underwater repeatedly on their own, and be comfortable doing …

Read more

Level 1

Swimming Ideas: Level 1 Going underwater, and Support Minimum Ages: 2.75 years or 3 years old. Participants should be able to stand on their own, understand language, and have control of their limbs, and ability to follow directions. Quick Test Criteria: Does the swimmer go underwater on their own? Testable Skills Go underwater unassisted Supported …

Read more

Guppies Toddler

Water games, comfort, bravery Ages: 2 through 4 years old. Participants should be comfortable without a parent in the class, though they can watch from nearby. Lessons should be taught in SHALLOW water with a zero-depth pool preferred. Water level should be at most waist or bottom of rib cage deep with lots of room …

Read more

Swimming Game – Election

Category: Group Activity Core Skill: Swimming Knowledge / General Swimming Name: Election! We played this game on the fly on November 8th, the night of the american election. With the results in, and Hillary Clinton winning the popular vote by 3 million, and Trump seeming the next president, it highlights some of the interesting things about american …

Read more

Swimming Game – Baseball World Series

Category: Group Activity / Personal Challenge Core Skill: Swimming Knowledge Name: Swimming Baseball Were you caught up in baseball world series fervor? The Cubs finally won the series for the first time in 108 years, and in honor of their last game, we played “Baseball” at swim practice. It was AWESOME! The kids had a blast, and …

Read more

Swimming Game – Personal Challenge

Category: Personal Challenge Core Skill: Varied Name: (Category of Game)   You want to play games in your swim lessons and at swim practice. It makes your students more engaged because they have more fun, and it resets their attention allowing you to intersperse your repetitive practice with fun and interesting activities. Games are fun, and they …

Read more

Training Module – Removing “ok” from your language

Training: Removing “ok” from your language Key Points: This is the one simple fix you can apply to your language to make you a stronger, better teacher. Turn your uncertain requests into direct commands that make swimmers listen. Quick effective action to turn your beginning staff into more confident instructors. Set up your training This training …

Read more

Swimming Game – Flip a Coin

Category: Group Challenge, Chance Core Skill: Coach’s choice Name: Flip a Race You’ll need two large coins. Quarters will do. The coach flips a coin, then a swimmer flips a coin. Swimmers take turns flipping one of the coins. There will be four options: Coach Heads, Swimmer Heads Coach Heads, Swimmer Tails Coach Tails, Swimmer Tails Coach Tails, Swimmer Heads …

Read more

Swimming Lesson Guide – Giving feedback

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Report cards, Certificates, Evaluations: The ins, outs, and positive sandwiches of giving praise and criticism Swimming Lessons Ideas was initially designed as a resource for my own program, and as an online repository for swim lesson games and ideas. I am so fortunate to interact with a diverse and resourceful community of people looking …

Read more

Training Module: Line of Sight

Download the PDF guide and handout here: [button link=”https://www.swimminglessonsideas.com/wp-content/uploads/Training-module-Field-of-View-1-1.pdf”]Download PDF[/button]   Training: Line of Sight Key Points: Keep whole class in front of your face Create clear expectations Guard the leapers going past you Set up your training Start in one large group. Handout a copy of this PDF (found at the top of this …

Read more

Training Module: Going Underwater

Download the PDF handout and guide here:[button link=”https://www.swimminglessonsideas.com/wp-content/uploads/Swim-Instructor-In-service-Module-Going-Underwater.pdf”]Training: Going Underwater[/button] Training: Going Underwater Key Points: Offer excessively multiple opportunities to go underwater Instructor must go underwater first and often. No dry heads. Push the next step of the underwater progression, not 2 steps ahead. Incremental Underwater Progression; all 7 steps. Set up your training Start …

Read more

SIP 052: Swimming is a habit

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_052.mp3″ artist=”Swimming Ideas” social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ]   How to Build a New Habit: This is Your Strategy Guide http://99u.com/articles/17123/5-scientific-ways-to-build-habits-that-stick   http://www.lifehack.org/articles/featured/18-tricks-to-make-new-habits-stick.html   Teaching swimming lessons is establishing habits for our swimmers. We look at how to do that in this podcast by looking at how to create good habits. If you want …

Read more

Swimming Game – Statue Master

Category: Personal Challenge (in groups) Core Skill: Body position, body control, mimicking Name: Statue Master   Statue master is an interesting game that at first looks like you are wasting time or doing nothing. We first played this game with our beginning developmental age group swim team using the formula found in the book, How to Create Fun …

Read more

How to teach swimming lessons – Treading water

This brilliant swim lesson hack, tip, and guide comes from swim instructor Teresa from Arizona. She has been teaching swimming for 10 years and has a wonderful swimming lesson tactic for teaching treading water. I found her description to be excellent; brief, concise, and so obviously awesome it needed to be shared. If you’ve taught …

Read more

SIP 051: Go to games for swimming lessons

Today we’re going to look at the “staple” games for swimming lessons. These are the go to games I use for most swim lessons. Once you get a group of swimmers with you more regularly where they know you and are used to your system and routines, you can start playing more inventive and dynamic …

Read more

SIP 050: Lesson Plans for swim lessons

The importance of lesson plans. Lesson plans are not necessary for everyone. Veteran and highly experienced teachers can do without them. However levels, move up criteria and overall progression planning is necessary. You have to know where you want to go before you start moving forward. Majority of swim instructors are inexperienced. Park districts hire …

Read more

SIP 049: Ring the Bell

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_049.mp3″ artist=”Swimming Ideas” social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] https://www.facebook.com/swimrichmond/  Swim RVA http://www.swimrichmond.org/ Fitness and swimming pool in Richmond VA I follow them on Facebook and Twitter and their “ring the bell” concept is amazing. Loud, physical, tangible thing to do announcing to everyone and yourself that someone has succeeded in something. We don’t do …

Read more

Swimming Game – Human Cannonball

Category: Group Challenge/Skill Core Skill: Streamline Name: Human Cannonball Check out the picture first.   We played this game because I noticed at swim practice our streamlines were really lazy and slow. The swimmers were doing them correctly: locked thumbs, squeezed ears, looking down. They were just, slow. Not very energetic or powerful pushes. We played this …

Read more

SIP 048: The science behind progressions

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_048.mp3″ artist=”Swimming Ideas” social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ]   USA Swimming has this article linked to their Learn To Swim page at www.usaswimming.org   http://www.usaswimming.org/_Rainbow/Documents/cad48e4f-0aab-4cea-8fba-0c376f556559/BCDPTF%20Position%20Paper%203a.pdf   We’re going to look specifically at this portion:   ” Moving and Learning Recent neurological research links movement to learning and memory.  Since neurologists now agree that active …

Read more

SIP 047: Three cures for terrible training sessions

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_047.mp3″ artist=”Swimming Ideas” social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] You’re likely getting ready for your summer lifeguard training this month. You have returning staff and new hires eager or reluctantly attending your mandatory training.   These are critical hours you have a captive audience. Here are 3 things you can do as an instructor or …

Read more

SIP 046: Two scripts for teaching swimming

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_046.mp3″ artist=”Swimming Ideas” social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] Front glides, back glides   https://www.swimminglessonsideas.com/2015/02/17/how-to-teach-swimming-lessons-front-glide-script/   Put your shoulders in the water Put your arms out in front of you Put your face in the water Push off to me   Back glide script:   https://www.swimminglessonsideas.com/2015/02/25/how-to-teach-swimming-lessons-back-glide-script/   Stand up straight Turn away from me Put …

Read more

SIP 045: Importance of Routine

Set up systems for better success Look in your favorite search: importance of systems in business You’ll find a huge list of why you need to have systems. What is a system and why is it important for swimming lessons or swim teams? I think of a “system” as a template or a guide for …

Read more

SIP 044: Resetting when plans don’t work

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_044.mp3″ artist=”Swimming Ideas” social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] Learn when it is time to stop an activity and move on.   When you feel you’re forcing it When participants are distracted by something else Loud reset When goofiness takes hold Use a distraction skill: my go to is “jumps” When participants are not “getting …

Read more

SIP 043: Interrupt your flow

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_043.mp3″ artist=”Swimming Ideas” social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ]   Why we would interrupt a skill progression to play a game, and why it works for swim lessons and better retention.   General swimming lesson information.   Typical swim lesson plans: Enter Underwater Front glides Free swim Breathing Free swim Back glides Back arms Back …

Read more

Swimming Game – Underwater Picture

Category: Individual Challenge Core Skill: Going Underwater, Recovering to surface Name: Underwater picture game This game idea comes from one of Swimming Ideas’ members. She uses this game in her swimming lessons and it is a wonderful way to encourage younger swimmers to put their face in the water and begin opening their eyes behind the goggles. The …

Read more

SIP 042: Revisiting Streamline

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_042.mp3″ artist=”Swimming Ideas” social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] Swimming Ideas Podcast 042: Revisiting Streamline What are the 3 things to streamline? Lock thumb Look down Squeeze ears                       What common problems do these commands/goals/specific words correct: Head lifted and looking forward Arms not tight …

Read more

SIP 041: Underwater First

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_041.mp3″ artist=”Swimming Ideas” social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] Make an effort to go underwater with participants on every Level 1 activity.   Level 1 and Parent Tot.   Our primary focus is going underwater.   When you can go underwater then you can do everything.   The only thing you can do without going …

Read more

Swimming Game – Roll the dice game

Category: Group Activity or Challenge Core Skill: All, depending on instructor/coach choice Name: Roll the Dice then Go   Who: This game is good for all abilities and all groups. The pictured example was done with a developmental swim team group. Ages 5-12, minimum requirements 25 freestyle with breathing, 25 backstroke. Swimmers in that group are learning breaststroke arms …

Read more

SIP 040: Multiple levels in the same class?

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_040.mp3″ artist=”Swimming Ideas” social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ]   Can you teach level 2 and level 3 in the same class? What about 1 and 2?   We go into some in-depth discussion on what each level requirements are, and how you can integrate them into one class.   Is it ideal?   Why …

Read more

SIP 039: Revisiting Position 11

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_039.mp3″ title=”SIP 039: Revisiting Position 11″ artist=”Swimming Ideas” social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] How we use it in swim lessons and how we use it at swim practice. What is it: Position 11 is: A drill we do to establish a good quality body position and long reach. Something we do every day in …

Read more

SIP 038: 2016 and Language

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_038.mp3″ title=”SIP 038: 2016 and Language” artist=”Swimming Ideas” social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] Using external language to get better results http://www.swimmingscience.net/2012/02/external-vs-internal-focus-for-optimal.html     Swimingscience.net posted an article about External and internal focus for optimal learning.   Basically: external focus is better. Using golf, darts, and balancing a board, researchers have shown that when you …

Read more

Effective Teaching – Series 3 of 3

Surrounded by indifference? I am so thankful for your attention. I know you have a busy life, especially during the summer when swimming seems to be much more in the forefront of our minds. Thank you for both opening this email, and for your interest in www.swimminglessonsideas.com. I want swim lessons in general to be …

Read more

New Swim Instructor Guide to teach adults and teens

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]This guide will help you teach swimming lessons to teenage and adult beginners. It is intended to help new swim instructors teach well to a different type of student: adults.  Teenagers are included as they are generally mature enough in this type of learning to be similar to how adults learn. Veteran instructors will benefit …

Read more

Effective Teaching – Series 1 of 3

Be one of the best instructors Before I give you this juicy nugget of teaching effectiveness I want to thank you for being interested in teaching swimming. I’m creating swim lesson plans and training documents to improve our own program, but to also improve yours. Take these effective teaching tips from USA Swimming’s Sport Performance …

Read more

Make an ‘attempt,’ do not “try”

The language we use as swim coaches and swim instructors is important. Even subtle language has a profound impact on our participants. I make an effort with every sentence to speak exactly with instruction as literally as possible. Yoda had it right when he says in Star Wars, “Do, or do not. There is no …

Read more

Revive your Summer Swim Lessons this Winter

For the northern hemisphere, we’re in the throws of winter, or in 2015, what should be winter on December 21st. El Nino has for most of the world delayed much of the snow and cold and turned it into wet dismal weather.

With the longest night of the year just past us, memories of summer seem distant and cold. They are far away and we still need to slog through the wet spring and snowstorm of January – March.

Before you know it, we’ll be hiring for summer staff and interviewing our swim instructors. If you put out a summer brochure for registration you’ve likely just started planning it, or already have it done.

Here are 6 tips you can do to get ready for your summer swim lessons and make your memory of summer a little warmer and brighter!

Read more

SIP 037: Problem then Solution Conundrum

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_037.mp3″ title=”SIP 037″ artist=”JSWIM” social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] Motivate your swimmers using this simple tactic Locked doors, headaches, and intellectual need | Affording Play    http://flip.it/9Moov     Mathematics, and how to teach both old and new math, and how to program.   The concept of the “locked door, and the key.” I …

Read more

SIP 036: 100 Point Game at Swim Practice, Success? or Failure?

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_036.mp3″ title=”SIP 036: 100 Point Game at Swim Practice, Success? or Failure?” artist=”Jswim” social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] You can find the website post about this game here: https://www.swimminglessonsideas.com/2015/06/02/swimming-game-100-point-swim/   We played this game about 10 times in the last few months. I have played it with swimming lessons with more advanced abilities and …

Read more

SIP 035: What makes a good swim coach?

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_035.mp3″ title=”SIP 035: What is a good swim coach?” artist=”Jswim” social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] You can focus on the ‘change mindset’ and foster successful swimmers in the future. Coach I work with talking about job history, philosophy of coaching   Fixed mindset, change mindset   Work hard and you will fail   Coach’s …

Read more

Why is meditation so closely linked with water?

SIP 034: Bringing Meditation techniques to swimming

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_034.mp3″ title=”SIP 034: Bringing Meditation techniques to swimming” artist=”Jswim” social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] Does meditation have a place in swimming? How did I arrive at it? Podcast: Art of Charm http://theartofcharm.com/ http://theartofcharm.com/podcast-episodes/tony-stubblebine-ruthless-meditation-episode-446/       What exactly am I talking about? Encouraging swimmers to “think” about swimming as they do it Promote “attempts” …

Read more

SIP 033: What do you think of “side glide?”

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_033.mp3″ social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] Should we get rid of side glide like sidestroke? Side Glide:   What are the benefits? Are there even good examples of side glide that effectively teach freestyle breathing?   If you can do a streamline, do that first, then roll over on your side, put your top …

Read more

SIP 032: Class setup: Instructor with assistants

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_032.mp3″ title=”SIP 032″ artist=”Jeff Swimming Ideas, LLC” social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ] What do you do with new staff that have been trained, but still need some practical experience before they start teaching classes on their own?   Do you like the new format of this podcast? Do you like it? Leave an honest …

Read more

SIP 031: Does sidestroke deserve to “go away?”

[smart_track_player url=”http://traffic.libsyn.com/swimmingideas/SIP_031.mp3″ title=”SIP 031: Does sidestroke deserve to “go away?”” artist=”Jswim” social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” ]   I can think of three reasons to use sidestroke: Use in lifesaving. Survival swim. A teaching tool to illustrate what NOT to do when teaching breaststroke kick. When you teach swimming lessons we want to make an effort …

Read more