Swimming Drills for Beginner Swimmers

A novice swimmer cannot and should not just jump in the pool and swim laps. It will be an exercise in frustration rather than physical exercise. The ability to move the body smoothly and efficiently in the water generally takes training and practice. Drills for beginner swimmers will help them build the necessary endurance and technique to become expert swimmers.

  1. Shark Fin

    • The shark fin swimming drill is one to start with if you are new to swimming. Start by floating on your stomach with your face down. Pull up one elbow so that it points toward the ceiling. Drag that hand until it is flush with your goggles. Go back to the beginning and start again. Roll on your back when you need to take a breath.

    Side Kick

    • Side kick swimming drills can help you learn how to keep your body in place by kicking. Start out in the same position as you do in the shark fin kicking drills. Keeping your face in the water, put one arm out in front of you, while the other arm stays at your side. Rotate your shoulders over to the side, toward the outstretched arm, and kick your legs from the hips, not from the knees. Roll onto your back to breathe and return to the starting position.

    Flutter Kick

    • Practicing the flutter kick can get you ready for swimming full laps at the pool. Lay on top of the water on one side of your body. Stretch out your arm straight above your head so that your ear rests on it. Put the arm that is on the water straight out and rest your ear on it. The arm should be up and along the body. Keep your head in place and kick the legs in the water using your hips.

    Equipment

    • Both novice and experienced swimmers can benefit from using equipment, such as kickboards and fins. All swimmers should use goggles, especially in a chlorinated pool. Kickboards allow you to focus on developing your kicks without having to do anything with your arms. Fins make it easier to kick and to cover distance in the pool.