Freestyle is a fundamental swimming technique that kids learn early in their pool time. At America’s Kids In Motion in Clovis, CA, we offer swimming lessons to Fresno County kids eager to learn the freestyle, backstroke, and many other swimming techniques that build blocks to a safe, enjoyable life in the water. Here’s what to know about learning the freestyle safely and effectively.
Freestyle 101
Freestyle is a versatile swimming stroke defined by its alternating arm movements and flutter kick. It’s almost like the inverse of a backstroke — the arm and leg movements are nearly the same, but the swimmer performs them on their front instead of their back. However, unlike other strokes that require swimmers to remain in a horizontal position, the freestyle demands a slight body rotation with every stroke. Combined with coordinated breathing methods, the body’s rotation makes the stroke easier to execute.
Freestyle Body Position
For freestyle to be executed effectively, the swimmer must properly position their body. Young swimmers are encouraged to maintain a streamlined posture and keep their bodies parallel to the water’s surface.
Through consistent lessons, swimmers are taught to engage their core muscles and keep their bodies straight. This lays the groundwork for more efficient freestyle.
Freestyle Arm Motions
The freestyle’s signature arm motions are continuous, alternating movements. As swimmers extend one arm forward and the other arm pulls back, they build momentum to propel through the water more efficiently. Coordinating these movements requires focus, timing, and rhythm, which can require steady repetition to master.
A quality instructor can help kids stay dedicated to consistent practice while maintaining a fun, curious attitude at each lesson. It’s all about breaking down the stroke into simple, manageable steps.
Freestyle Kick Technique
Like other common swimming strokes, such as the backstroke, the flutter kick is central to the front crawl. The flutter kick works in tandem with the arm motions, propelling kids forward in the pool as they swim.
Kids are taught to relax their feet as they swim to reduce resistance in the water, just like other swimming techniques. Kicking skills are often honed through targeted drills and supportive, constructive feedback from expert instructors.
Freestyle Breathing Methods
Proper breathing is an essential skill for executing freestyle, but it can be challenging to master. Breathing must be coordinated with the swimmer’s arm motions and their flutter kicks. To master this, kids must learn rhythmic breathing, turning their heads to the side to inhale while their arms recover overhead, then exhale underwater.
This breathing method will keep kids energized and improve their speed and endurance. A top-notch instructor will work with kids step by step to ensure they develop this skill safely and effectively.
The Importance of Experience
Anytime a child is in the water, safety comes first. Young swimmers need trained instructors who know how to watch for safety risks and teach kids to develop safety awareness in and around the pool. A quality instructor maintains a safe atmosphere that respects the water and regularly trains kids in water safety techniques, including back floats and treading water.
An experienced instructor also offers a more effective way to learn the strokes. At America’s Kids In Motion, our instructors are experts who know exactly which drills and practice methods will help your kids master essential swimming skills.
Teaching swimming requires balancing consistent repetition and knowing exactly how much practice of any given skill is just right. Our instructors know how to keep every lesson fun while prioritizing safety and proper form, fostering a lifetime of healthy swimming techniques.
Swimming Lessons at America’s Kids In Motion
Learning to swim is your child’s key to a lifetime of summers at the beach, afternoon swims at the pool, and, of course, safety in any aquatic situation.
If you’re in Fresno County and want to equip your children with the tools to be great swimmers, reach out to America’s Kids In Motion today to learn more about swimming lessons at our Clovis, CA, location.
We combine swimming lessons, sports classes, ninja lessons, education, and social gatherings in one place, so you’ll only need to make one drop-off for the day — no matter how many kids are under your roof.
