Swim Lessons University

Swim Instructor Tip #010: How to Stop Overpulling in Breaststroke

Breaststroke is arguably both the hardest stroke to teach and the hardest stroke to learn—and overpulling is one of the most common mistakes we see.

In this video, you’ll see me helping my student, Kashton, correct overpulling.

One important clarification: this is NOT Kashton’s first lesson in breaststroke. So, while it may appear that he magically fixes his pull during this particular swim, that would be misleading. This is simply the first time he performs the pull correctly.

So, how did we get here?

First, at Swim Lessons University, we train our instructors using specific teaching language, proven teaching cues, and principles of motor learning, including concepts described in the Fitts and Posner model.

Fitts and Posner identified three stages of motor learning—the cognitive, associative, and autonomous stages—which help us understand how learners progress as they develop a new skill. Their work also addresses the role of feedback as learners develop and refine motor skills.

One important concept we apply in our teaching is keeping our feedback congruent with our instruction and teaching cues.
For example, I can see that Kashton is swimming with fists. However, I intentionally avoid giving him feedback about that error at this moment.
Why?

Because it is important to keep his attention on the “big thing”—the specific part we are currently working on. In this case, that is keeping the hands in front. If I start correcting every error I see, I risk distracting him from the primary skill we are trying to develop.

Second, at Swim Lessons University, we train our instructors to apply proven pedagogy principles. Because breaststroke is a complex skill, we use an approach called the Part-Whole Approach.
Simply put, we teach one part of the stroke at a time before putting all of the parts together.

To be clear, we break down the major components of breaststroke during every lesson, but we also try to put the whole stroke together during every lesson, whether it looks like a legal breaststroke that day or not.

That matters.

Students need opportunities to practice the complete movement pattern while they are learning each individual component.

And finally, there is one lesson we emphasize with both our swim instructors and the parents we work with:

Learning to swim is a process—not an event.

Celebrate the smallest achievements.

Keep the environment positive.

And most of all—be patient.

Patience, combined with confidence in how and what you are teaching, is absolutely one of the most important characteristics of an effective swim instructor.

If you want to learn our step-by-step approach for teaching breaststroke and butterfly, check out our Advanced Swim Strokes 300-Level Courses (301, 302 & 303) and get started today:
https://swimlessonsuniversity.com/advanced-swim-strokes-301-302-303-course/

Train Online Today. Teach Tomorrow.

🚨 Swim Instructor Tip #9: Don't Let Goggles Steal Your Practice Time! 🥽

If you teach preschoolers or young swimmers, you probably know the routine...

"My goggles fell off!"
"Can you fix my strap?"
"My goggles are leaking!"

Before you know it, valuable practice time is spent adjusting goggles instead of building swimming skills.

I deal with this too, but I've found one solution that has made a noticeable difference for my youngest swimmers: the FINIS Dragonfly goggle.

What makes them different?
✅ The strap design helps keep the goggles in place instead of sliding down toward the neck.
✅ They create a better seal, which means fewer leaks.
✅ The neoprene strap is much gentler on children's hair, so making small adjustments doesn't cause tears or frustration.

Because of how well they've worked, I'm moving toward requiring the FINIS Dragonfly goggles for my Swim 101 and Swim 201 classes for children that are ready for goggles.

As instructors, every minute in the water matters. If we can eliminate preventable interruptions, we can spend more time practicing the skills that help children become safer, stronger, and more confident swimmers.

👀 One Simple Skill That Can Make a Big Difference in Water Confidence...

Are You Teaching Your Toddler Students to Open Their Eyes Underwater?

If not, it's a skill worth teaching.

Many young babies naturally open their eyes underwater. But as they become toddlers, preschoolers, and young children, they often become hesitant. They may think it will hurt, or they simply aren't sure it's safe.

That's where patient, child-centered instruction makes all the difference.

Once a child is comfortable and confident going underwater—and you've built trust and a positive rapport—it's time to gently introduce opening their eyes.

I like to start by asking them to open their eyes "just a tiny bit" or even make a little squint while I demonstrate what I mean. Keeping the request small helps it feel achievable.

One of my favorite motivators is giving them a fun mission:
💙 "See if you can find Mommy (or Daddy) underwater!"
Suddenly, they're not focused on opening their eyes—they're focused on an exciting challenge. That simple shift often makes all the difference.

There should never be pressure. Just gentle encouragement, praise for every attempt, and reassurance that they'll get it with practice. Even trying deserves celebration.

The videos below are from one of our Swim Lessons University Parent & Tot classes and show how we introduce this important skill in a positive, confidence-building way. These same child-centered teaching principles are also used with preschoolers and school-aged swimmers.

🎓 Want to learn exactly how we teach Parent & Tot classes?

Our Swim Lessons University Parent & Tot Online Training & Certification Course is available now for just $75.00 and will give you the knowledge and confidence to teach these youngest swimmers successfully.

👉 Get started here: https://swimlessonsuniversity.com/parent-tot-course/

Train Online Today. Teach Tomorrow.

If you've been following Swim Lessons University, you've seen dozens of teaching tips for swimmers of all ages and skill levels. Today, instead of another teaching tip, we want to show you what a mastery-based curriculum looks like in action.

One thing we don't believe in at Swim Lessons University is designated testing days.

We never want children to feel the pressure of passing one test—whether that pressure comes from themselves, their parents, or the expectations they imagine others have for them. Likewise, we don't want instructors feeling pressured to evaluate swimmers on one specific day or feeling obligated to advance everyone simply because a test has been scheduled.

Instead, we teach, observe, encourage, and celebrate progress week after week, allowing every child to develop at their own pace.

When a swimmer consistently demonstrates mastery of the fundamentals—not just on one great day—that's when we surprise them with a graduation! 🏅

Along the way, swimmers earn Swim Lessons University wristbands to celebrate milestone achievements. When they master an entire level, they receive a graduation medal—a recognition that's truly earned.

These surprise graduations are some of our favorite moments because the excitement is genuine, and the smiles are unforgettable.

🎉 Congratulations to 5-year-old Annie! 🎉

In this video, Annie confidently demonstrates Freestyle with Side Breathing and Backstroke, earning her graduation into our Advanced Swim Strokes 301/302 program.

In Swim Strokes 301/302, Annie will begin learning:
🦋 Butterfly
🐸 Breaststroke

She'll also continue refining her Freestyle and Backstroke with stronger, more efficient technique.

At Swim Lessons University, we believe confidence is built through consistent success—not one high-pressure moment. Every child progresses at their own pace, and graduations happen when swimmers have consistently demonstrated they're truly ready for the next level.

If you're looking for a proven, mastery-based curriculum that builds confident swimmers, confident instructors, and stronger swim programs, we'd love to partner with you.

Whether you're an:
🏊 Individual Swim Instructor
🏢 Swim School
🌳 Park & Recreation Department
💙 YMCA or JCC
🏅 AAU Swim Club
🏊 USA Swimming Club
🤝 Boys & Girls Club
🎓 University
🌊 Pool Management Company

—or another aquatic organization, Swim Lessons University has training solutions designed for you and your team.

Looking to train multiple instructors? Ask about our Instructor-Trainer License and Authorized Provider Program, offering discounted training for organizations certifying six or more instructors.

🌐 Ready to elevate your swim program?
Visit www.SwimLessonsUniversity.com

Train Online Today. Teach Tomorrow.

🎉 Meet 4-year-old Ella, who just graduated from Swim Lessons University's Swim 101 class! 🏊‍♀️

If you've seen our Preschool Swim Teaching videos, you've probably noticed many of our young swimmers wearing the SwimWays Power Swimmer. While flotation devices aren't part of every instructor's teaching style, this Progressive Swim Trainer has been an important part of my program since 1994.

What makes it so effective? It features 9 removable flotation pads, allowing me to gradually decrease support as each child develops confidence and stronger swimming skills. This lets children begin practicing more independently instead of relying on an instructor every moment.

Another advantage is the body position it encourages. The trainer naturally helps children stay horizontal in the water, making it much easier to develop a strong flutter kick—the primary source of propulsion for preschool swimmers. Good body position also helps prevent habits like "running" or bicycling in the water, which can be much harder to correct later.

One of the biggest benefits is increased practice time. Because children can safely practice on their own, instructors can effectively work with two or three swimmers at once, giving every child more opportunities to learn.

I've always believed:

Practice is the Mother of Learning, and Repetition is King.

The more children practice, the faster they progress, the more confident they become, and the more fun they have in the water.

There's also an added layer of safety. While nothing replaces attentive adult supervision, the Progressive Swim Trainer helps keep children at the surface, giving instructors valuable extra moments to respond if assistance is needed.

After nearly four decades of teaching children to swim, I've learned there are many excellent teaching approaches. I respect every instructor dedicated to helping children become safer, confident swimmers.

As Executive Director of Swim Lessons University, I'll continue recommending this Progressive Swim Trainer because it has consistently delivered outstanding results for more than 30 years. Today, Swim Lessons University instructors are teaching children in all 50 states and over 40 countries. Our goal has always been about more than swimming—it's about building confidence, developing lifelong water safety skills, and helping children enjoy the water with greater independence.

Interested in becoming a certified Swim Lessons University instructor?

For just $50, you'll receive unlimited access to our Swim 101 online training course, complete lesson plans, and the opportunity to earn your certification.

Train online today. Teach tomorrow!

https://swimlessonsuniversity.com/swim-101-course/

Meet 4-year-old Harlan, graduating from Swim Lessons University's Swim 101 class!

If you've watched our Preschool Swim Teaching videos, you've probably noticed our young swimmers wearing the SwimWays Power Swimmer. While some instructors prefer not to use flotation devices, I've successfully used this Progressive Swim Trainer since 1994—and for good reason.

With 9 removable flotation pads, I can gradually reduce support as each child gains confidence and independence. Instead of relying on an instructor every second, children are able to practice swimming on their own much sooner.

Another reason I recommend this swim trainer is that it naturally keeps children in a horizontal body position, making it easier to develop an effective flutter kick. At the preschool age, the flutter kick is the primary source of propulsion. Good body position helps prevent children from developing habits like "running" or bicycling in the water, which can be difficult to correct later.
One of the greatest benefits is more practice. Because children can practice independently, instructors can safely teach two or three swimmers at the same time.

As I've said for years:
Practice is the Mother of Learning, and Repetition is King.
More practice leads to faster learning, greater confidence, and happier swimmers.

There's also an important safety benefit. While nothing replaces close adult supervision, this Progressive Swim Trainer helps keep children at the surface, giving instructors valuable time to respond if a swimmer needs assistance.

After nearly 40 years of teaching children to swim, I know there are many effective teaching methods. I respect every instructor whose mission is helping children become safe and confident in the water.

As Executive Director of Swim Lessons University, I'll continue recommending this Progressive Swim Trainer because it has been tested, refined, and proven since 1994. Today, Swim Lessons University instructors are teaching children in all 50 states and more than 40 countries. Our mission has never been just teaching children to swim—it's helping them become confident, capable, and safer around the water for life.

Interested in becoming a certified Swim Lessons University instructor?

For just $50, you'll receive unlimited access to our Swim 101 online training course, complete lesson plans, and the opportunity to earn your certification.

Train online today. Teach tomorrow!
https://swimlessonsuniversity.com/swim-101-course/