The Science of Effective Swimming Lessons
09/17/2023 | Written by Nikos Kaskaras in Swimming Lesson Tips
What makes a swimming lesson effective? Are there any “secrets” behind the success of the best swim instructors? And what are the qualities that swim students should seek from their teachers? Let’s explore together those fundamental questions.
Customised Learning for Best Swim Lessons
Effective swimming lessons go beyond the "one-size-fits-all" approach. Each individual's learning pace, comfort level, and physical abilities are unique. Swimming instructors should understand this, and tailor their lessons to accommodate diverse learning styles. Such personalised approach enhances the learning process by creating a comfortable environment where learners can progress at their own speed, ensuring that fundamental skills are mastered before moving on to more advanced techniques.
How Learning Styles Affect Swim Lessons
The previous mention of diverse learning styles is of great significance and requires further insights. Each human being is unique and the diversity of personal traits is deeply correlated to the different ways they have to learn new skills. In all aspects of learning, the so-called VARK model applies. The term VARK comes from the acronyms visual, aural, read/write and kinesthetic. Let’s explore in more detail what each of these stands for.
Visual Learners
These learners grasp concepts through visual aids such as diagrams, charts, and videos. They need to see the technique in action to understand and replicate it.
Auditory Learners
Auditory learners thrive when instructions are spoken or heard. They benefit from clear explanations, verbal cues, and discussions.
Read/Write Learners
These learners prefer written instructions, textbooks, and note-taking. They excel in situations where they can read and write about the subject matter.
Kinesthetic Learners
Kinesthetic learners learn best through hands-on experiences. They prefer to physically practice the skill to internalize it.
The Role of Learning Styles in Swimming Lessons
Effective swimming instructors recognize that a common teaching methods may not yield the best results. By tailoring lessons to cater to various learning styles, instructors ensure that their instructions and guidance produce results. Let's explore how the aforementioned learning styles can be accommodated in swimming lessons
Swimming Lessons for Visual Learners
Visual learners benefit from demonstrations of swimming techniques. Instructors can use underwater cameras to capture swimmers in action and then play back the footage, providing visual feedback. This allows learners to observe their movements, identify areas for improvement, and correct their form.
Swimming Lessons for Auditory Learners
For auditory learners, clear and concise verbal instructions are crucial. Instructors should use descriptive language to explain swimming techniques, focusing on the rhythm of strokes, breathing patterns, and body positioning. Providing verbal cues during practice can help auditory learners fine-tune their actions.
Swimming Lessons for Read/Write Learners
Read/write learners can benefit from written materials that break down swimming techniques and concepts. Instructors can provide detailed handouts or online resources that participants can refer to between lessons. Keeping a diary about their progress and experiences can also be helpful for these learners.
Swimming Lessons for Kinesthetic Learners
Kinesthetic learners thrive in the water. Instructors should allocate ample time for hands-on practice, allowing these learners to feel the water's resistance and adjust their movements accordingly. Frequent repetition and guided practice sessions can help kinesthetic learners develop muscle memory and coordination.
By conducting initial assessments, instructors can identify the dominant learning styles of their students. This information allows them to customize the lesson plans, ensuring that each student receives the support they need to excel.
Psychological Comfort and Water Confidence
Another significant point of delivering excellent swim lessons has to do with overcoming fear of water. Indeed, overcoming water-related anxieties is a critical step in becoming a proficient swimmer. The science of effective swimming lessons recognises the importance of creating a positive and comfortable atmosphere. Swim instructors should employ techniques to build water confidence gradually, helping learners overcome fear and apprehension. This approach is rooted in psychology and ensures that learners associate water with safety and enjoyment, paving the way for smoother skill acquisition.
Motor Learning and Muscle Memory in Swim Lessons
Motor learning is a key concept in effective swimming lessons. It involves the development of muscle memory through repeated practice and feedback. Effective swim lessons should focus on breaking down complex swimming movements into smaller, manageable components. By mastering individual elements and gradually combining them, learners can internalize the proper techniques. This approach aligns with motor learning principles and helps learners acquire skills more rapidly and effectively.
Feedback and Skill Refinement in Swim Lessons
Constructive feedback is a cornerstone of effective swimming instruction. Provision of real-time feedback during lessons is crucial for helping learners understand their strengths and areas for improvement. This immediate feedback loop is based on educational psychology, enabling learners to make necessary adjustments and refine their techniques in the moment. Over time, this process enhances skill development and promotes a deeper understanding of swimming mechanics.
Progressive Skill Building in Swimming Lessons
Just as a building requires a strong foundation, effective swimming lessons prioritize progressive skill building. Our curriculum is structured to ensure that learners build upon their existing skills, gradually incorporating more advanced techniques. This sequential approach aligns with educational theories of scaffolding, where learners are provided with guidance and support as they venture into new territory. As a result, swimmers develop a solid skill set that allows them to tackle increasingly challenging tasks.
Incorporating Biomechanics in Swimming Lessons
Biomechanics plays a pivotal role in the science of swimming. Understanding how the human body interacts with water helps instructors optimize stroke efficiency and reduce energy expenditure. Integrate biomechanical principles into swim lessons ensures that learners adopt techniques that minimize resistance and maximize propulsion. By harmonizing the body's movements with water dynamics, swimmers can achieve greater speed and endurance while minimizing strain.
Bottom line is that providing optimal swimming lessons is the outcome of numerous parameters. Whether you're an aspiring swimmer who learns by seeing, listening, doing, or reading you could ensure that learning would adjust to your own unique traits and characteristics. Know yourselves, look for the best and learn by the best to enjoy the greatness of the aquatic world!
