Name
Cupid's Heart
One-Liner
Swim, check your pulse, and spread kindness in this heart-healthy Valentine's Day challenge.
Success Criteria
Swimmers complete multiple 25-yard swims, accurately track their heart rate changes, and participate in positive affirmations with their lane mates.
Failure Criteria
Swimmers cannot find their pulse, refuse to participate in the social component, or swim at an unsafe pace that prevents heart rate recovery.
Core Skill
Cardiovascular endurance and social skills
Who
This challenge is suitable for swimmers who can swim at least 25 yards or meters without stopping and can find their pulse. Ideal for Level 3 and Level 4 swimmers.
What
This challenge is a fun way to celebrate Valentine's Day by combining swimming, heart rate monitoring, and positive affirmations. Swimmers learn how exercise and emotions affect their heart rate while building camaraderie.
How
- Divide the swimmers into lanes according to their ability level.
- Explain the challenge and demonstrate how to find their pulse in their neck with two fingers.
- Have swimmers find their pulse and count the beats for 10 seconds. Multiply by 6 to get beats per minute (BPM).
- Have swimmers swim a 25-yard freestyle or use a kickboard for 25 yards. Remind them to breathe regularly and maintain a steady pace.
- Have swimmers find their pulse again and compare it with the previous reading. Is it faster? Why?
- Have swimmers say something positive about someone else in their lane, or shout something they like about other people (general or specific). For example: “I like it when people share!” or “You have a great smile!”
- Have swimmers find their pulse again and compare it with the previous reading. Is it faster? Why?
- Repeat the cycle of swimming, finding pulse, and saying positive things for several rounds or until time is up.
- Have swimmers reflect on how they feel after the challenge. Did they enjoy it? Did they notice any changes in their heart rate or mood?
Difficulties Instructors Might Face
- Some swimmers may have difficulty finding their pulse or counting accurately. Assist them with a stopwatch or heart rate monitor, or pair them with a partner who can help.
- Some swimmers may be shy or reluctant to say positive things. Encourage them by giving examples, praising their efforts, and creating a supportive environment.
- Some swimmers may get too excited or competitive and swim too fast or too slow, affecting their heart rate and breathing. Remind them to swim at a comfortable speed and focus on their own performance.