Swimming Game – Challenge: Stroke Switch

Name

The Stroke Switch Challenge

One-Liner

Swimmers must perform at least 3 strokes of each of the four competitive strokes (Fly, Back, Breast, Free) before reaching the halfway point or the wall of a 25-yard pool.

Success Criteria

1. Complete all four strokes with a minimum of 3 cycles of each stroke before switching.
2. Reach a specified distance (e.g., 25 yards) while following the stroke order.

Failure Criteria

1. Not completing all four strokes before the halfway point.
2. Repeating a stroke within 10 meters or breaking the IM order.

Core Skill

This challenge helps swimmers practice all four strokes in a fun, adaptive way. It reinforces streamlining, breathing, and transitioning between strokes.

Who

Level 4 swimmers who can swim 50 meters of front or back crawl and have some experience with breaststroke and butterfly.

What

A personal skill challenge where swimmers switch strokes in IM order (Fly → Back → Breast → Free). They must do at least 3 strokes of each stroke before reaching the halfway point or the wall of a 25-yard pool.

How

1. Swimmers go one at a time, starting at the wall with a streamline.
2. Swim in IM order: Fly → Back → Breast → Free.
3. Switch strokes at will, but must complete at least 3 cycles of each stroke before switching.

Goals

1. Do all four strokes with a minimum of 3 cycles of that stroke before switching. You can do more.
2. Reach a certain distance (e.g., 25 yards).

Challenge Options

1. Set the distance farther than what 3 strokes of each IM stroke can normally cover.
2. Require that the swimmer must touch the wall or reach the end point doing Free.
3. Limit the maximum number of strokes allowed and let swimmers adjust to make the distance.
4. Make the end point really short: must do 3 strokes of each stroke, but super fast and short.
5. Make the end point really far: must do 3 strokes of each stroke, but super exaggerated with lots of gliding.
6. Add your own roadblock!

Difficulties Instructors Might Face

1. Ensuring all swimmers follow the correct stroke rules and do not repeat any strokes within 10 meters.
2. Providing feedback and encouragement, especially to swimmers who struggle with certain strokes or get confused by the switching.
3. Managing safety and behavior when swimmers are switching strokes or finishing the challenge.

Thank you! Share your thoughts on how this game worked in your swim lessons or on swim team!