Swimming Challenge: Airplane to Flags

Name

Challenge: Airplane to Flags

One-Liner

Push off the wall underwater in Airplane position, no kicking. Glide to the flags.

Success Criteria

Swimmer glides from the wall to the flags (or past them) without kicking, maintaining the Airplane position the entire time.

Failure Criteria

Swimmer kicks, breaks the Airplane position, or stops before reaching the flags.

Core Skill

Streamline body position, underwater glide, and core stability. The Airplane position (arms extended forward, head down, body flat) teaches swimmers to hold a tight streamline while moving through the water.

Who

Developmental swimmers who are comfortable pushing off the wall and gliding underwater. Best for swimmers working on body position and streamline.

What

Swimmers push off the wall in a streamlined Airplane position (arms extended forward, hands together, head between arms, body straight). They must glide underwater without any kicking. The goal is to reach the flags at the other end of the pool.

How

1. Swimmer stands at the wall, ready to push off.
2. On the signal, swimmer pushes off the wall in Airplane position, keeping arms extended and head down.
3. Swimmer glides underwater without kicking — only the momentum from the push-off propels them forward.
4. The challenge ends when the swimmer reaches the flags or surfaces. If they kick or break position, the attempt is over.

Difficulties Instructors Might Face

Some swimmers may instinctively kick or lift their head to breathe. Emphasize a strong push-off and remind them to keep their head down and arms tight. If a swimmer struggles to reach the flags, have them start closer to the wall or reduce the distance. This challenge also reveals who needs to work on core tension and body alignment.