S4Swimming

Swimming is part of the National Curriculum in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, but the timing for when these lessons must occur varies across the UK. In England and Wales, swimming instruction is typically scheduled around Years 3 or 4. In Northern Ireland, it can happen any time during Key Stage 2, up to Year 6. Scotland, however, does not have a mandatory requirement for swimming lessons. This diverse range of recommendations can leave parents wondering about the optimal time to start swimming lessons for their children. The Importance of Early Swimming Lessons While opinions may differ, we believe that everyone should learn to swim, and the earlier, the better. According to NHS guidance, you can take your baby or child swimming at any age. But this raises the question: what’s the best age to start formal lessons? Splashing Around Perhaps a better question is when can children start swimming lessons? When you take your baby or toddler swimming, even in a group class, it shouldn...

Swimming is a vital life skill that opens doors to a healthier and more enjoyable lifestyle. While various options exist for learning to swim, private swimming lessons stand out for their numerous benefits. Here’s why private swimming lessons can be the best choice for you or your child:  1. Personalised Lessons Tailored to Individual Needs: Private swimming lessons are customised to meet the specific needs, goals, and abilities of each swimmer. Whether you’re a beginner aiming to overcome a fear of water or an advanced swimmer looking to refine your technique, the instruction is designed just for you. Focused Progression: Instructors can concentrate on areas where you need the most improvement, ensuring that you master each skill before moving on to the next. This personalised approach helps in developing a strong foundation and achieving your swimming goals more efficiently. Adaptable Teaching Methods: Everyone learns differently, and private lessons allow instructors to employ t...

Building speed in swimming boils down to achieving optimal streamline and efficiency in the water. Whether you're a competitive swimmer aiming for the podium or a recreational swimmer looking to shave seconds off your time, here are six key strategies to help you swim faster:   1. Building Your Kick The kick is a crucial element of swimming that provides propulsion and maintains body position. To build a powerful and effective kick: Practice Flutter Kicks: Use a kickboard and focus on fast, small kicks from the hips rather than the knees. This helps in developing the correct form and strength. Incorporate Fins: Training with fins can increase ankle flexibility and build leg strength, making your kicks more powerful. Kick drills: Include kick sets in your training routine, such as vertical kicking or sprint kick sets, to enhance both speed and endurance. 2. Creating a Better Pull A strong pull maximizes your propulsion through the water. Improving your pull involves: Technique Dri...

Swimming and running might seem like two distinct disciplines, but incorporating running into your training regimen can significantly enhance your swimming performance. Here’s how: 1. Cardiovascular Endurance Running is an excellent way to boost cardiovascular fitness. This is crucial for swimming, as a strong heart and lungs allow for better oxygen delivery to your muscles, enhancing your endurance in the pool. By running regularly, you can increase your aerobic capacity, which helps you swim longer distances without tiring. 2. Leg Strength and Kick Power Running strengthens the muscles in your legs, particularly the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. Stronger legs translate to more powerful kicks, which are essential for maintaining speed and efficiency in the water. Hill sprints and interval running can be particularly beneficial for developing explosive power in your kicks. 3. Mental Toughness Running, especially long-distance running, builds mental resilience. Pushing th...

Starting your swimming journey with S4 is exciting, and we want to ensure you're fully prepared and know what to expect.  Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get ready for your first lesson. What to Bring Make sure you come prepared with the following items: a swimming costume, a towel, and clothes to change into after the lesson. These basics are essential for a comfortable and smooth experience. Don’t forget a swim hat and goggles – these are critical for swimming. However, if you don’t have a hat yet, there’s no need to worry. You'll receive an S4 hat in your welcome pack. It’s important to note that all swimmers are required to wear a hat in our pools to prevent hair from getting into the drains and filters, ensuring a clean and safe environment for everyone. Arrival at the Pool Upon arrival, head over to your session coordinator, who can be easily identified by their black polo top. The coordinator plays a crucial role in ensuring that your experience is seamless. The...

As the summer holiday approach, many families head to beaches, lakes, and pools to enjoy some refreshing time in the water. While these destinations can be a source of fun and relaxation, they also come with risks. Ensuring water safety is crucial, especially when children are involved. Here are five essential tips to keep in mind for a safe and enjoyable holiday by the water. 1. Understand the Water Environment Different bodies of water have unique characteristics and hazards. Familiarise yourself with the environment you’ll be swimming in: Beaches : Check for rip currents, strong tides, and jellyfish warnings. Look for lifeguard stations and swim within designated areas. Lakes and Rivers : Be aware of hidden currents, underwater obstacles, and varying depths. Avoid swimming near boats or in areas with heavy vegetation. Pools : Ensure the pool is well-maintained and follow posted rules. Be cautious of slippery surfaces and diving areas. 2. Supervise Constantly and Closely Never le...