I've been teaching swimming for over 30 years and I built Swim Teach so that I can share all my knowledge, wisdom and experience from the thousands of swimming lessons I have had the pleasure of teaching. Take a look back through my previous newsletters and see what you missed.
Can't float when swimming? ‘This is a must read! Plus, Loads Of Teaching Resources
Many beginners learning to swim believe that the ability to float holds the key to success, but that is really not true. Most of the best swimmers in the world cannot float.
Hi, Mark here. I hope all is well with you.
This week, I debunk some of the myths about floating by adding in a few essential tools that beginners need, to learn how to swim.
Floating Stationary or Whilst Moving?
Floating stationary and whilst moving are two completely different concepts to get to grips with. Some of us sink like a stone and there is nothing we can do about it. However, if we learn to glide, we stay afloat as we swim through the water. Plus, if we begin to add some aspects of gliding into our swimming technique, we become more efficient as we move through the water too. Win-win! Click the link below for the low down on gliding...
| Discover how to glide |
Just Relax...!
Does your swimming teacher often say 'try to relax'? Easier said than done eh? Especially when you're not completely comfortable with being in the water yet. Well, here are a few tips and tricks that might just help unlock that ability to relax and be 'at one' with the water.
For more on the science of floating and for some exercises to try that will help you get a feel for floating, click here.
Teachers - Resources To Save You Time And Work
There is nothing better than someone else doing some hard work for you. In my Resource Library you will find basic drills, lesson plans and my hugely popular 'How To Be A Swimming Teacher' ebook. Head over by clicking the link below - you might just save yourself some time and effort!
| Lesson Plans and other Teaching Resources |
That's it for this week. Stay focused, stay in touch and stay safe.
Happy swimming!
Cheers
Mark
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Hi! I'm Mark, creator of Swim Teach
I've been teaching swimming for over 30 years and I built Swim Teach so that I can share all my knowledge, wisdom and experience from the thousands of swimming lessons I have had the pleasure of teaching. Take a look back through my previous newsletters and see what you missed.
Hi Mark here, Happy new year! I hope all is well. A new term always brings a familiar rhythm - fresh faces, returning swimmers, and a renewed chance to make a real impact at poolside. Whether you’re just starting out or many years into teaching, the most effective lessons tend to share the same foundations: clarity, variety, patience, and purpose. With that in mind, here are a few simple reminders worth carrying into your teaching this term. Know who you’re teaching It sounds obvious, but...
Hi Mark here, Happy new year! I hope all is well. If learning to swim is part of your plans, the most important thing to remember is this: confidence comes before technique. The swimmers who make the best progress aren’t the ones who push hardest — they’re the ones who take time to understand the water and themselves. Here are a few key foundations worth focusing on as you begin (or continue) your swimming journey: Get comfortable in the water first Before strokes and lengths, spend time...
Hi, Mark here — I hope you’re doing well as we reach the end of the year. This is the time when routines shift, pools get a little quieter, and many people focus on family, work, rest, or celebration. If you’ve found your swimming slowing down recently, please know this is completely normal - and nothing to feel guilty about. Learning to swim as an adult takes courage, consistency, and patience. And sometimes the best thing you can do for your progress is simply to pause, breathe, and come...