Teaching another person to swim is a rewarding task. However, it is not easy, as there are many things to check and you must be absolutely aware of what the person is doing at all times, both to keep him safe and to verify that he is swimming correctly. If you are interested in teaching someone to swim, you are now the "teacher" and your pupil is the "pupil"; and now it's time to get in the water!
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Overcoming the Fear of Water
Step 1. Make him pass any fear of water
This is a necessary step only if the student is afraid. Gently let it enter the water, in the shallow part of the pool. Let him splash around for a while, until he feels comfortable and safe.
It would be helpful to hold his hand, to make him feel less anxious, or you could provide him with some kind of life jacket
Step 2. Keep in mind that it is often very useful first of all to teach the "student" not to drown
Make sure he learns well, because if he panics he risks getting into trouble, and there is absolutely no reason to panic when he is always able to return to the surface. This means approaching water in a balanced, safe and calm way.
Let him advance into the pool until he can stand on tiptoe and keep his head above the water. Proceed with the lesson, having him move his feet and arms correctly back and forth while still standing upright. This may be a natural movement for many people, but if not for your pupil, have him put on a pair of goggles to watch underwater while you show him. When he realizes he can't drown if he can float in one spot, teaching him to swim becomes much easier
Method 2 of 4: Teaching the First Movements
Step 1. Practice your arm movements
Sit on the edge of the pool, next to the student. Show him how to do the arm movements in a very simple way too, as you will show him more precise later. Ask him to imitate you, and at this point you should correct any mistakes he may have made.
Step 2. Use the edge of the pool to practice leg movements
Have the student put his arms on the edge and tell him to kick with his legs. Teach him how to move properly so that he feels confident when he finally starts swimming. He probably finds it easier to do this exercise if you have him lie on his stomach so that he can see his legs as he moves them.
Step 3. Have him lift his feet when he is centered at the bottom of the pool
This is a big step for some people, with no edge to hold on to, so it may take some time. Again, the general advice is to hold his hand and help him float. The student should try to stay afloat; you should show him again how to do it, if he has any difficulties.
Method 3 of 4: Start Swimming
Step 1. Take the first steps of swimming
Encourage him to swim short distances in the lower part of the pool, with simple movements that make him feel safe. Don't push him to overdo it for now; these are probably the first strokes of his life.
Step 2. Swim the width of the pool with the student
You probably won't be able to convince him right away. Maybe it will take several lessons to get to this level. However, make sure you always support him, both physically and mentally - it's a big step for him.
Step 3. Invite the student to try out different styles
This will help him decide which one he likes best. Have him swim a width of the pool in freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and any other more or less simple style you can think of. Don't put too much pressure on him though. You need to make the new one fun, so that it will entice them to learn better.
Method 4 of 4: Part 4: Go to High Water
Step 1. Take your first swim in the deep side of the pool
The student is probably not ready to swim there yet, so he should simply move to the edge of the pool. It may take a few tries before you get to that part of the pool. In this case, you should lead the way, show him it's safe, and go a little further each time. It is essential to remove the fear of deep waters from the student.
Step 2. Swim to the deep end
When the student feels ready, and it may take a while, you should carefully accompany him into the deep area. To begin with, you should stand next to him and make sure he feels confident. Eventually, you will find that he will be able to swim on his own, and that you have done a good job.
Advice
- Only teach him a couple of new things at a time so he doesn't get confused.
- You have to be very confident and kind. If you seem mean it can be difficult to teach him. But don't be afraid to give him commands.
- Always go to a pool where there is a lifeguard, otherwise the student could be in danger.
- It will take a long time, follow his pace and be patient.
- Do not be afraid to give instructions other than those indicated in this article, if it can help the student.
- It may be easier and more suitable for the student to attend suitable swimming lessons.
- Avoid using armrests or a life jacket, as they teach you the wrong body position.
- Start with a tablet or other useful floating device to aid him, but not fully support him.
- An alternative approach is to start without using your arms. The student just has to move his legs! Proper leg movement encourages good body position. Use foam tubes. When the movement of the legs becomes good, have him put his face under water and teach him to exhale by making bubbles. Get past the tablet stage and start teaching him arm movements.
Warnings
- Be careful, and don't make him do things that make him feel uncomfortable.
- Make sure there is a lifeguard in the pool where you exercise.
- Never push or throw someone into the water, especially if they are still learning.
