How to Increase Learning and Interest in Your Classes
Are you in a rut? Have you taught the same lessons over and over for years? They work, they’re great, and they’re interesting for the kids, but how can you amuse yourself and your students without disrupting the flow of your tried and true lesson plans?
The answer might be simple: <strong>Do a series of Challenges.</strong>
What Exactly Are Swim Challenges?
Challenges are simple, achievable games and activities that you introduce into your lessons. They provide a fun, goal-oriented element that encourages swimmers to push their boundaries in a playful way.
These challenges don't have to be complex; they just need to be physically engaging enough to create excitement. For example:
- Do a flipDo a handstand that turns into a flipPerform a sequence: back float, roll over on your belly, then roll over on your back again (or Front float, back float, front float roll).Execute 2 flips in 5 seconds.Put only your lips underwater and not your nose for 5 seconds.Stand on a noodle without touching the bottom and keeping your head above water for 10 seconds.Wrestle an alligator for three spins.Jump in with a splash lower than the ladder handles.Jump in with a splash higher than the ladder handles.
Remember, a challenge is defined as a physically achievable activity that may not be easy to accomplish. And that’s okay! The goal is participation and effort, not perfection. If a swimmer fails, it’s just an opportunity for encouragement and trying again.
Where Did This Concept Come From?
The concept of using structured challenges comes from broader literature on creating fun and effective swim games, helping coaches build variety into their curriculum.
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Putting Challenges Into Practice
I recently used challenges extensively in a lesson, and I highly recommend checking out this post for inspiration:
Check out a recent blog post where challenges are used extensively: https://www.swimminglessonsideas.com/2017/04/07/swim-lesson-update/
<strong>Coach's Tip:</strong> When introducing a new challenge, always start with the easiest version and build up. For instance, if you want them to do 2 flips in 5 seconds, first practice the flips slowly, then increase the speed gradually. This builds confidence!
Why Keep Using Challenges?
Simply put: because they’re awesome! They provide a burst of energy and focus that traditional drills sometimes lack. They keep both the instructor and the students engaged, making the overall lesson feel more like play and less like work.
Will these challenges show up in an updated lesson plan? Maybe! But even if they don't, the spirit of fun and goal-setting they provide is invaluable.
Join the Conversation (Podcast Promotion)
If you are a fellow aquatic professional, we want to hear from you! Be a guest on the Swimming Ideas Podcast. Tell your story and share with us your favorite challenges and how you’ve overcome them. We are a community of aquatic professionals, and your story is of value to us!
Connect with me: jeff@swimmingideas.com
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