Hi, Mark here — I hope the end of term is treating you kindly. As we reach that time of year when routines shift, the pool quietens down, and many people focus on family, rest, and celebrations of all kinds, it’s natural for swimming to slip a little lower on everyone’s list. Teachers are wrapping up blocks of lessons, parents are juggling end-of-year commitments, and many of us are simply ready for a breather. This calmer period can actually be a gift.A chance to pause, reflect, and reset...
1 day ago • 1 min read
Are you striving to make every second count in your 30-minute swim lessons? Are you lessons working as hard as you are? Hi, Mark here. I hope all is well with you. Are you striving to make every second count in your 30-minute swim lessons? A well-structured plan is the cornerstone of effective teaching, ensuring your students progress confidently and efficiently. Crafting the Perfect 30-Minute Lesson An impactful swim lesson encompasses several key components: 1. Lesson Type & Level: Define...
9 days ago • 1 min read
Are you ready to transform your freestyle stroke into a smooth and efficient glide through the water? Dive into Freestyle: Master the Art of Effortless Swimming! Hi, Mark here. Hope all is well with you. Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn or a seasoned swimmer aiming to refine your technique, I’ve got you covered. Unlock the Secrets of Freestyle Swimming Freestyle, also known as front crawl, is celebrated for its speed and grace. To help you master this stroke, I’ve broken it down into...
9 days ago • 1 min read
Hi there, Mark here - I hope you’re doing well and that pool life’s been kind to you lately. In case you missed them the first time around, I wanted to remind you about my Swimming Teacher Toolkits - complete, downloadable bundles designed to support new and developing teachers. They’ve been helping teachers plan lessons, build confidence, and keep sessions fresh and engaging. Each toolkit builds on the last: Bronze includes a full teaching guide and beginner lesson plans Silver adds fun...
16 days ago • 1 min read
Learning to swim starts with calm, not chaos - it’s about building confidence, feeling at home in the water, and knowing exactly what to do each time you step into the pool. Hi, Mark here. I hope all is well with you. When you’re learning to swim, it’s natural to have a few questions running through your mind: Why do I still feel nervous in the water? Why do I sink when I try to float? How do I breathe without swallowing water? Where do I even start — strokes or confidence first? If those...
16 days ago • 1 min read
Does floating feel awkward? Is breathing under water making you panic?Whether you’re learning to swim or you’re a swimming teacher with pupils who just can’t relax, this week’s email will help bring calm to the chaos. Hi, Mark here. I hope you've had a great week. When you’re relaxed in the water, everything becomes easier – movement feels smoother, breathing becomes rhythmical, and swimming starts to feel natural. 3 Steps to Help You (or Your Pupils) Relax in Water: Breathe-hold and submerge...
23 days ago • 1 min read
Many swimmers pull too hard and still don’t move far. Here’s why — and a simple drill that fixes it. Hi, Mark here. Hope your week’s been a good one! Let’s talk breaststroke arms. As swimming teachers, we know it’s the leg kick that delivers the real power. But many swimmers still rely too much on their arms to pull themselves through the water, and that’s where things go wrong. Quick Breakdown of the Arm Pull Technique The breaststroke arm movement can be split into three simple phases:...
30 days ago • 1 min read
The surprising power of play in the pool (and how to use it) Hi, Mark here - hope you've had a great week! This week we are talking about the power of games and play when it comes to learning and teaching swimming, plus one of the most important foundation skills for beginners - learning how to submerge. Using games and play to teach swimming isn’t just fun - it’s one of the most effective ways to build confidence, engagement, and water skills. For parents, playful games open a child’s mind...
about 1 month ago • 1 min read
Struggling to move efficiently through the water despite vigorous kicking? You're not alone. Many swimmers find that their efforts don't translate into speed or distance. The key lies in refining your technique. Hi, Mark here. I hope you've had a great week. This week, we unpack the secrets to a powerful front crawl leg kick. Stay tuned to the end of this week's newsletter for a free Front Crawl Cheatsheet for you to download, save and print out. You'll find the link right at the end of this...
about 1 month ago • 1 min read