Game version
Pool-deck follow-the-leader: one person leads a dryland movement and the group copies. Swap the leader each time.
Negative Split 200s
Swim the second half faster than the first.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Swim 200 and check the clock at halfway.
Core: As written. Aim for smooth form and compare only with your own last time.
- Ages
- 14 and up
- Time
- 20 min
- Players
- Just you
- Space
- Pool
- Bring
- Pool, pace clock
- Level · skill
- Advanced · Endurance
The steps
How it works
- Swim 200 and check the clock at halfway.
- Make the second 100 faster than the first.
- Rest 45 seconds.
- Swim 4 of these.
Coaching point
Hold back early, bring it home.
Safety: Only swim with a lifeguard or coach watching and, under 14, a grown-up within arm’s reach.
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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