The Top Swimming Techniques for Beginners

Learning to swim is a valuable and empowering life skill that opens the door to fun, fitness, and water safety. At Seal Swimming, we believe every swimmer should start with a strong foundation built on proper technique and confidence in the water. Whether your child is stepping into the pool for the first time or you're guiding a new swimmer, mastering key techniques early on makes all the difference.

Here are the top swimming techniques every beginner should learn:

1. Floating and Breath Control

Before learning strokes, beginners should feel comfortable simply being in the water. Mastering front and back floating teaches balance and body position, while breath control helps swimmers stay relaxed and safe. Encourage slow, controlled breathing and fun games like blowing bubbles to make practice playful and effective.

2. Kicking Techniques

Proper kicking is essential for propulsion and body alignment. Two basic kicks beginners should learn are:

• Flutter Kick: Used in front crawl and backstroke, it involves quick, alternating leg movements.

• Frog Kick: Used in breaststroke, it mimics a frog's leg motion and requires coordination. Using a kickboard during lessons helps focus on form and builds leg strength.

3. Front Crawl (Freestyle)

Often the first stroke taught, the front crawl is efficient and fun to learn. Key components include:

• Alternating arm movements

• Flutter kick

• Rhythmic side breathing At Seal Swimming, our instructors focus on proper body position and breathing rhythm to ensure young swimmers develop strong freestyle skills early on.

4. Backstroke

Backstroke builds confidence by allowing swimmers to breathe freely while learning coordination. It also reinforces floating skills. Beginners learn to:

• Stay streamlined on their back

• Use a steady flutter kick

• Alternate arm movements in a windmill motion

5. Breaststroke

A slower, more technical stroke, breaststroke is great for building endurance and focus. Beginners work on:

• The frog kick

• Simultaneous arm movements that scoop water forward

• Timing and glide phase Although challenging, breaststroke becomes a favourite once mastered.

6. Treading Water

Treading water is a key water safety skill. It helps swimmers stay afloat in deeper water while conserving energy. Beginners use a combination of eggbeater or scissor kicks and gentle arm movements. At Seal Swimming, we introduce this skill in a fun, supportive way that builds strength and confidence.

7. Safe Entry and Exit

Learning how to safely get in and out of the pool is just as important as swimming itself. Beginners are taught:

• How to use pool steps, ladders, or seated entry

• How to climb out using elbows and knees (no slipping!)

At Seal Swimming, we guide every beginner through these fundamental techniques with patience, positivity, and a focus on safety. Our instructors create a welcoming environment where swimmers feel supported, motivated, and proud of their progress.

Ready to dive into the basics? Register today for our Spring and Summer Sessions at SealSwimming.ca and help your child build confidence and strong skills in the water.