SNZ Events
Epic Swim
High Performance
SNZ Events
Epic Swim
High Performance
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Jump, relax into a float then roll over. If you fall into the water or get pushed over by a wave, relax and you will float to the surface, then you can roll onto your back to breathe.
Can you sit on a board and scull? A great activity to teach the feel of the water, sculling in different directions, core strength and competitions and relays galore.
What helps you to float? Try floating with a variety of different aids to see what helps you to float. Doing this in the water makes it easier to float and you use less energy. This is an important survival skill everyone can practice.
If you plan on heading to the beach be sure to check out Surf Life Saving New Zealand's website. This will give you information on the conditions, hazards, if it is a patrolled beach, activities and facilities.
Looking to buy a life jacket? Find out tips and tricks on getting the right jacket.
The Water Safety Code is a great introduction to ways to keep yourself safe in and around the water. It consists of four simple rules to remember each time you venture near the water; Be prepared, watch out for yourself and others, be aware of the dangers and know your limits.
Remember to practice what you preach! It is very important to wear a life jacket when recreating in, on or around water. The best way for children to learn this is by you modelling the behaviour.
Teaching your swimmers about pool depths and where they can safely swim is a great way to help build their confidence in the water. Encourage your children to investigate the different pool depths they may experience both at school and in their local community. Have them measure pool depths on the walls so they can stand against them and see where the water level will reach. This will be an excellent maths activity for the classroom too!
Have you tried doing a stationary scull to assist a static float? Or experimenting with different shapes? This photo shows a star shape and the group then tried rotating one way then the other, while maintaining a streamlined position as an extra challenge. This practice helps to understand the importance of sculling – tilt the hand to push the water in one direction and the body moves in the opposite direction (for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction).
Swimming in clothes can be a valuable lesson for all swimmers to take part in. Start on land with two big buckets of water - one filled with clothes and the other filled with togs. Get the kids to feel the weight of the clothes and the togs by pulling them from the water. Which ones are heavier? Discuss how this transfers to the pool/river/beach etc. Encourage your children to always swim in correct swimwear.
