Game version
Pool-deck follow-the-leader: one person leads a dryland movement and the group copies. Swap the leader each time.
Breakout Bursts
Sprint the first strokes after your push-off, the fastest part of every length.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Push off and kick to your normal breakout spot.
Core: As written. Aim for smooth form and compare only with your own last time.
- Ages
- 14 and up
- Time
- 12 min
- Players
- Just you
- Space
- Pool
- Bring
- Pool, cones or flags
- Level · skill
- Advanced · Speed
The steps
How it works
- Push off and kick to your normal breakout spot.
- Take 6 very fast strokes at the surface.
- Swim easy to the end.
- Rest 45 seconds; do 8.
Coaching point
Explode out, then hold it.
Safety: Swim only with a lifeguard or coach watching and, under 14, a grown-up within arm’s reach. Breathe normally before you go under, never take extra fast breaths, and come up as soon as you want air.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Pick a level: Less (slower or smaller), Core (as written), More (one extra twist). Aim for smooth form and compare only with your own last time.
Story
You are an explorer crossing the pool deck like a jungle.
My best
Beat your own count
Aim for smooth form and compare only with your own last time. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
Print it now, or save it free
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