Swimming Lessons for Quentin's Recovery

Oct 31, 2024

Swimming Lesson with Johnny Rocket and Quentin

Introduction

  • Instructor: Johnny Rocket
  • Student: Quentin (National Guard, police officer, recovering from back surgery)
  • Objective: Teach Quentin to be comfortable in water, improve swimming skills and techniques.

Training Plan

  • Duration: 4 days
  • Schedule: 2 hours of lessons each day
  • Goals:
    • Get comfortable in the water
    • Learn to breathe to the side
    • Learn to float on the back
    • Swim in the deep end
    • Improve distance and breathing techniques

Day 1 Lessons

Basic Concepts

  • Water Physics: Like being in space; staying low in the water is key
  • Weightlessness: Achieved by picking feet off the ground

Breathing Techniques

  • Blowing Water Away: When emerging from the water, blow the water away like a dolphin before inhaling
  • Underwater Breathing: Practice multiple dips and quick breaths

Kick Techniques

  • Foot Position: Use loose, floppy ankles rather than stiff, flexed feet
  • Kickboard Use: Hold at top for better core engagement

Floating on Back

  • Chin Position: Chin up on the back
  • Ear Water Awareness: Water enters ears, make noise to muffle discomfort
  • Head Support: Instructor supports head like a football

Rolling Techniques

  • Pineapple Roll: From belly to back to get a breath
    • Arm Motion: Elbow the air, slap the water
    • Leg Motion: Use legs and arms to create a roll
  • Back to Belly Roll: Easier than belly to back; use arm to reach across body

Fin and Kickboard Practice

  • Fin Use on Back: Easier floating and movement
  • Kickboard Instructions: Keep nose of board near surface and make bigger kicks for control

Tips for Improvement

  • Relaxation: Relaxation is key; more effort doesn’t always equate to better swimming
  • Core Engagement: More control by engaging the core, especially when kicking
  • Practice: Consistent practice (21 times concept) to develop habits

Conclusion

  • Contact Information: Text or email for direct contact or private lessons
  • Encouragement: Emphasized the importance of understanding the relationship with water and the role of relaxation in swimming