Game version
Stroke spotters: one swims a length while the partner on deck watches for one thing (long arms or a smooth kick) and shares what they liked. Swap, with an adult watching.
Bilateral Breathing
Breathe on both sides to stay balanced and efficient.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Swim easy freestyle for 25 yards.
Core: Full stroke. Beat your own count of strokes per length by one fewer, comfortably.
- Ages
- 11 and up
- Time
- 10 min
- Players
- Just you
- Space
- Pool
- Bring
- Pool
- Level · skill
- Developing · Stroke Technique
The steps
How it works
- Swim easy freestyle for 25 yards.
- Breathe every 3 strokes to alternate sides.
- Keep your head low with one goggle in the water.
- Do 6 lengths.
Coaching point
Roll to breathe, stay low.
Safety: Swim only with a lifeguard on duty, a coach or adult nearby and, under 14, a grown-up within arm’s reach.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Pick a focus: Less (kick only), Core (full stroke), More (full stroke with a smooth breathing rhythm). Beat your own count of strokes per length by one fewer, comfortably.
Story
You are a dolphin gliding through the water with long, smooth strokes.
My best
Beat your own count
Beat your own count of strokes per length by one fewer, comfortably. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
Print it now, or save it free
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