Start Shallow

Don’t feel pressured to practice at the deep end. The shallow part of the main pool, usually at about 1.2 metres deep is perfect for anyone starting out in the front float. You can even practice this with your kids in the bathtub at home; just remember to never leave young children unattended at all times. Once water confidence has been built up, move to deeper parts of the pool.

Wear Goggles

It may be intimidating for beginners to put their heads in the water. Being equipped with a pair of good quality goggles will enable nervous swimmers to open their eyes and be aware of their surroundings. This takes away unnecessary anxiety and lets you concentrate solely on form and technique.

Use the Pool’s Edge

Practicing the front float at the side of the pool would be way less intimidating than doing so in the middle of the pool. If you’re a beginner, there’s no shame in sticking to your favorite corner to get the float right. When you become a pro at floating with your hands on the pool edge, try slowly letting go and eventually you’ll be able to float unsupported.

Ditch the Pool Noodles

Well, you don't have to say goodbye to your trusty pool noodles immediately, but do make an effort to slowly wean off them. When overused, pool noodles and other floatation devices may make you reliant on them, or cause you to form bad habits down the line. In situations where you really need support, use the edge of the pool as mentioned in the previous point, or get a friend to help you.

Exhale Slowly

Having enough air in your lungs is what’s gonna keep you floating. After assuming the front float position, do not exhale too quickly. Slowly blow bubbles and only fully empty out the air in your lungs when you need to come up to take a breath. Think of your lungs like a natural balloon or float; they need to be ‘inflated’ in order for you to stay buoyant on the surface. You can also practice taking deep breaths anytime out of the pool to eventually increase your float duration.

Be a Starfish

The more spread out a swimmer is, the more surface area there is for the water to support them. So, spread out your arms and legs and you’ll find it easier to maintain the floating position. Remember to keep your head, back and hips aligned. Try to practice this in a calm and controlled environment like a local swimming pool; you don’t want to be disturbed by choppy waves!

Keep your Legs Up

If a swimmer’s legs are sinking, chances are the entire body might follow suit. Be aware of the position of your legs and ensure your whole body is as parallel to the pool floor as possible. However, the body is naturally buoyant and the legs are denser than the arms and torso area. Don’t fight your body’s natural buoyancy if your legs don’t make it all the way to break the water’s surface.

Engage your Core

A great tool to use while floating is none other than your core muscles. Use your core muscles to push yourself towards the surface. Remember that mind-muscle connection is important, and whatever you visualise is likely to become reality as your muscles receive the attention you are giving them. This is also good practice as you progress in learning the various swim strokes; core strength undoubtedly plays an important role in great technique.

Relax

It may come as surprising, but the key to floating well is to relax. Think of the whole floating process as simply allowing the water to hold you, instead of you struggling to hold yourself atop the water. Being mindful of what you are doing can also help you get more comfortable. As you are floating, feel the water lapping against your limbs, and visualise your weightless self resting on the water surface.

Last but not least, find a good swim coach to guide you on your journey to be a proficient and confident swimmer. Online tutorials and tips from family and friends are definitely useful, but nothing beats having a professional swimming coach guide you along and provide you with personalized feedback. You’ll find that you’ll progress much faster under the supervision of a qualified coach.

Ready to start taking the pool seriously? Join our Condo Swimming Lessons today to get on the right lane to swimming success.

I’m Isabel, your friendly uni student who’s always waddling knee deep in readings and projects. But I’ll go through hell and high water to have regular suppers with my friends. You can find me with a film camera in one hand and a flat white in the other on the weekends. Also am able to rescue you if you ever capsize from a sea kayak.