What this swimming skill is
Have you ever seen a child's arms spin fast while they barely move? That is usually the hands slipping through the water instead of pushing on it. This skill is about feeling the water on the hand and pushing it back toward the feet, a bit like pulling yourself along a rope.
It comes after your child can reach forward in a straight line. Next comes bringing each arm back over the water, relaxed and ready for the next stroke.
See it in action
How to Swim Freestyle: How to Swim Bent Arm Freestyle
Made for adults learning to swim: moving from straight arms to a bent arm, with the elbow above the hand.
From the AquaMobile YouTube channel
Why it matters
Going further with each stroke.
When the hands push water back instead of slipping, each stroke carries your child further.
Less tiring.
Spinning arms waste energy. A steady, strong push lets your child swim longer before needing a rest.
A feeling of progress.
Children love the moment they feel the water move them along. It is a real confidence boost.
Ready for longer swims.
A good pull is what makes full lengths, and later longer swims, possible without wearing out.
