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Swimming Game – Challenge: Streamline Push

Level 2Ages 6-12streamlinebreath controlbody position

Name

Streamline Push

One-Liner

Partners work together to launch a streamlined swimmer off the wall — the farthest glide without kicking or breathing wins.

Success Criteria

The streamlined swimmer glides as far as possible without kicking, moving, or taking a breath. The partner who pushes must use their hands and feet on the wall to generate maximum distance.

Failure Criteria

The streamlined swimmer kicks, moves their body, or takes a breath during the glide. The push is weak or misdirected, causing the swimmer to veer off course.

Core Skill

Streamline body position, breath control, and partner coordination.

Who

Pairs or small groups of swimmers who can hold a streamline position on their back or belly.

What

One person floats in a streamline position (on their back or belly). The other person holds their feet and, when ready, pushes them off the wall using both hands and feet for maximum power. The goal is to see which streamline can travel the farthest without kicking, moving, or breathing.

How

  1. Divide swimmers into pairs or small groups.
  2. One swimmer assumes a tight streamline position (arms extended, head tucked, body straight) on their back or belly.
  3. The partner stands behind them, holding the swimmer's feet firmly.
  4. On a signal, the partner pushes the swimmer off the wall using their hands and feet for a strong, straight launch.
  5. The streamlined swimmer must remain completely still — no kicking, no body movement, no breathing — until they stop gliding.
  6. Measure the distance traveled. The farthest glide wins.

Difficulties Instructors Might Face

Swimmers may instinctively kick or take a breath when they feel the push. Remind them to stay relaxed and focus on keeping their body tight. Partners may push at an angle, causing the swimmer to veer sideways — practice straight pushes first. For younger or less confident swimmers, start with a gentle push and increase power as they improve.

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Originally from: https://www.swimminglessonsideas.com/blog/swimming-game-challenge-streamline-push/