What this swimming skill is
Breathing is usually the hardest part of front crawl. Many new swimmers hold their breath, lift the whole head to gasp, and run out of air after a few strokes. This skill is about breathing out gently underwater, then turning the face to the side for a quick breath in.
It builds on blowing bubbles and on the relaxed arm stroke your child has learned. Most people learn to breathe on one side first, and breathing on both sides can come later. After that, the whole stroke comes together.
See it in action
How to Swim Freestyle: How to Breathe When Swimming
Made for adults learning to swim: bubbles out under the water, then turning the head to the side to breathe in.
From the AquaMobile YouTube channel
Why it matters
Swimming without stopping.
Once breathing works, your child no longer has to stop and stand up for air. That is the difference between a few strokes and a whole length.
Calmer, more confident swimming.
Knowing the next breath is easy takes away a lot of worry, for children and adults alike.
Less tiring.
Lifting the head to breathe sinks the legs and wastes energy. A small turn of the head keeps everything level.
