If you are a new swimming instructor, you might be wondering how to organize your class and make sure everyone gets a chance to practice and improve their skills. One of the methods that you can use is the rotation method, which is a simple and effective way to manage your class and create a positive learning environment. In this blog post, I will explain what the rotation method is, what are its benefits, and how to use it in your swimming lessons.

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What is the rotation method?

The rotation method is a way to organize your class into a single line and take turns doing an activity. The first person starts in the corner of the lane, does their activity, then moves over and returns to the back of the line. The second person can start when the first person crosses the center line. This way, everyone gets to do the same activity without waiting too long or getting bored.

The activity can be anything that is appropriate for the level and goal of your class. For example, it can be swimming a certain distance or stroke, practicing a skill or drill, or doing a fun game or challenge. You can also vary the activity by changing the speed, direction, distance, or difficulty.

What are the benefits of the rotation method?

Some of the benefits of using the rotation method are:

• It reduces crowding and collisions. By having only one person at a time in each lane, you avoid having too many people in the same space and bumping into each other. This makes the class safer and more comfortable for everyone.
• It allows everyone to participate and practice. By giving each person a turn to do the activity, you ensure that everyone gets an equal opportunity to practice and improve their skills. No one is left out or ignored.
• It creates a rhythm and flow. By having a consistent order and timing for each person, you create a smooth and predictable flow for your class. This helps everyone stay focused and engaged, and also makes it easier for you to plan and manage your time.
• It makes it easier for you to observe and give feedback. By having only one person at a time in front of you, you can pay more attention to their performance and give them specific and timely feedback. This helps them learn faster and feel more confident.

How to use the rotation method in your swimming lessons?

Here are some tips on how to use the rotation method effectively in your swimming lessons:

• Explain the method clearly. Before you start the activity, make sure everyone understands how the rotation method works and what they need to do. Use clear and concise language to give directions and instructions, and demonstrate if necessary.
• Give feedback regularly. When a person returns to the class location, always give them some feedback on their performance. It can be positive or constructive, but it should be specific and relevant. For example, you can praise them for their effort or improvement, or suggest something they can do better next time. This helps them feel motivated and supported.
• Use variations and challenges. To keep the activity interesting and challenging, you can add some variations or challenges to it. For example, you can ask them to do it faster, slower, backwards, sideways, or with different movements. You can also use games or competitions to make it more fun and exciting.
• Monitor the class closely. While using the rotation method, you should always keep an eye on your class and make sure everyone is following the rules and doing well. If someone is struggling or having trouble, you can help them out or adjust the activity accordingly. If someone is misbehaving or disrupting the class, you can correct them or remove them from the line.

Example of using the rotation method

To give you an idea of how to use the rotation method in your swimming lessons, here is an example of an activity that you can do with level 1 and 2 swimmers:

Activity: Running along the lines on the floor that are five yards apart.

Purpose: To improve endurance, coordination, and balance.

Procedure:

• Divide your class into two groups and assign each group a lane.
• Have each group form a single line at one end of their lane.
• Explain that they will run along the lines on the floor that are five yards apart until they reach the other end of their lane.
• Demonstrate how to run along the lines by placing one foot on each line and keeping your arms at your sides.
• Tell them that they will take turns doing this activity using the rotation method.
• Establish the routine, flow, and order for each group by spending 20 seconds on each person.
• Start with group A. Have the first person run along the lines until they reach the other end of their lane, then move over and return to their line. Have them start when you say “go” and stop when you say “stop”.
• Give them some feedback when they return to their line.
• Repeat with group B.
• Continue alternating between group A and group B until everyone has done the activity once.
• Build on the activity by adding some variations or challenges. For example, you can ask them to run faster, slower, backwards, sideways, or with different movements. You can also use games or competitions to make it more fun and exciting.

Activity: Doing a front glide.

Purpose: To improve balance, streamline position, and breath control.

Procedure:

• Divide your class into two groups and assign each group a lane.
• Have each group form a single line at one end of their lane.
• Explain that they will do a front glide until they reach the bench.
• Demonstrate how to do a front glide by pushing off from the wall with your arms extended over your head and your legs together behind you. Keep your face in the water and hold your breath until you stop gliding.
• Tell them that they will take turns doing this activity using the rotation method.
• Establish the routine, flow, and order for each group by spending 20 seconds on each person.
• Start with group A. Have the first person do a front glide until they reach the bench, then move over and return to their line.
• Encourage swimmers to move continuously like they’re in traffic and doing u-turns over and over.
• Give them some feedback when they return to their line.
• Repeat with group B.
• Continue alternating between group A and group B until everyone has done the activity once.
• Build on the activity by adding some variations or challenges. For example, you can ask them to do a front glide with one arm, with one leg, or with a kickboard. You can also use games or competitions to make it more fun and exciting.

Conclusion

The rotation method is a great way to organize your class and make sure everyone gets a chance to practice and improve their skills. It has many benefits, such as reducing crowding and collisions, allowing everyone to participate and practice, creating a rhythm and flow, and making it easier for you to observe and give feedback. You can use it for any activity that is appropriate for the level and goal of your class, and you can vary it by changing the speed, direction, distance, or difficulty. By using the rotation method effectively, you can create a positive and productive learning environment for your swimming lessons.