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Monday 17 February 2014

Understanding counting rhythmically .... post 45



When learning/teaching swimming we stimulate a regular (uniform) recurring action or function of movement. Individual style and rhythm is developed by each one as we progress from basic to advanced swimming skills

We learn/teach rhythm during the orientation, basic, progressive, basic co-ordination and advanced stages by counting before we attempt certain skills like breathing in before we blow bubbles and while moving legs up and down when kicking

Lead by example to create a gentle slow rhythm. Complete each action without hesitation to maintain trust. Throughout the Modules we see and hear a comfortable rhythm. We are at the same level face to face with direct eye contact. We work together, rhythmically....

Before taking a big breath we say exactly what it is that we intend. Speak audibly, clearly, slowly, each time. Repeat each instruction specifically so that it is understood. Counting too becomes an instruction of readiness and working together

‘We are going to count before we  open the mouth wide to take a big breath to put the face into the water to blow ‘moo’ bubbles’. So, counting slowing, rhythmically ‘and one and two and three open wide (demonstrate by opening your mouth wide) big breath (then as the mouth or face are put into the water to blow bubbles say ‘moo’)
 
 

A progression is to give and demonstrate an instruction, count rhythmically, blow ‘moo’ bubbles then as the head is lifted up slowly say ‘and open wide big breath’ put the mouth or face into the water blow ‘moo’ bubbles. Practice this routine a few times to learn/teach the rhythm of continuous breathing and bubble blowing. Yet another short term goal with a short term achievement

We are heard to count ‘one two three four five six’ as we move legs up and down and when we motivate unsupported kicking for the purpose that legs move up and down to the counting rhythm heard. With lots of repetition, as kicking becomes an automatic reaction of the legs in water we no longer need to count

 

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