Streamline on back ideal, but soldier is okay too.
Streamline on the back is VERY difficult for younger swimmers.
It is ENTIRELY okay to test them with SOLIDER position with beginners instead of Streamline.
Testable goal:
Push off in streamline or solider on back then begin swimming backcrawl for 5 body lengths.
This should be done repeatedly and not one time in the course of a lesson, or with the instructor.
Bonus Goals:
- Push off underwater.
- Immediately move into streamline position, then start swimming.
- Body should remain flat and legs kicking throughout.
Activities to achieve this goal:
Supported Back Float / Glide
Have the swimmer rest on the parent’s shoulder. Lean into their neck and arm.
If ADVANCED hold the back of the head.
Advanced babies.
Start with head on shoulder, support the head and body, and finally support the head.
Your calm will dictate the swimmer’s calm.
Lots of Kicking on your back with floaties.
Use kickboards, barbells, lifejackets, whatever you have on hand to expose your swimmers to a safe and fun experience on their backs.
Over time they’ll get more and more comfortable.
Push off near the surface.
Follow the scripts for back glides and floats with and without support to ensure swimmers have a smooth experience.
Challenges to achieve this goal:
Challenges are like games but with less moving parts and quicker.
Challenge:
Push off the wall with hands at your side (soldier) glide to the flags without kicking.
Challenge:
Push off the bench/wall with your hands….
1. on your hips
2. on your belly
3. on your face
4. on your head
Challenge:
Float on your belly, then turn to your back and with 3 strokes and 20 kicks get to the other bench/target.
Final Test: Push off in soldier and glide, or in streamline then swim backcrawl with good form for 5 body lengths.