How to Learn to Swim With a Pool Noodle

Long, brightly colored foam pool noodles are a common sight at public and private pools as well as beaches, lakes and recreational boats. These noodles make for effective floatation devices and can be used by people of all ages and sizes. Many new swimmers, both children and adults, find the noodles helpful when learning how to swim because they offer users an extra sense of safety and confidence in the water.

Instructions

    • 1

      Use the noodle to float in the pool. To do this, place the noodle under both of your armpits and let your arms hang over the top of the noodle. An advantage of using a pool noodle is that you will be able to float vertically and horizontally. Spend some time floating with the noodle and becoming comfortable in the water.

    • 2

      Kick your legs while floating in a vertical position. This will prepare you to start treading water without the noodle. Once you feel confident, release the noodle and try treading water with your arms free as well.

    • 3

      Float your body in a horizontal position with the noodle under your armpits. Kick your legs with a flutter kick technique. This will prepare you to do a breaststroke once you are ready to let go of the noodle.

    • 4

      Turn over to do a back float. Place the noodle under your neck for support. Extend your arms to your sides to balance your float. Once you have mastered the float, kick your legs so that you will prepare yourself to learn the backstroke.

    • 5

      Play and have some fun with your pool noodle. Some types of noodles can be joined together to make structures or rafts. While this won't teach you specific swimming skills, it will help you to enjoy yourself in the water.