Name

Cupid’s Heart

Core Skill

Cardiovascular endurance and social skills

Who

This challenge is suitable for swimmers who can swim at least 25 yards or meters without stopping and can find their pulse.

What

This challenge is a fun way to celebrate Valentine’s Day by combining swimming, heart rate monitoring, and positive affirmations.

How

• Divide the swimmers into lanes according to their ability level.
• Explain the challenge to the swimmers and demonstrate how to find their pulse in their neck with two fingers.
• Have the swimmers find their pulse and count the beats for 10 seconds. Multiply by 6 to get the beats per minute (BPM).
• Have the swimmers swim a 25 Free or do a 25 with a kickboard. Remind them to breathe regularly and maintain a steady pace.
• Have the swimmers find their pulse again and compare it with the previous one. Is it faster? Why?
• Have the swimmers say something good about someone else in their lane, or shout as loud as they can something they like about other people (general, specific, anything). For example: “I like it when people share!” or “You have a great smile!”
• Have the swimmers find their pulse again and compare it with the previous one. Is it faster? Why?
• Repeat the cycle of swimming, finding pulse, and saying positive things for a few rounds or until the time is up.
• Have the swimmers reflect on how they feel after the challenge. Did they enjoy it? Did they notice any changes in their heart rate or mood?

Difficulties the Instructor Might Face

• Some swimmers may have difficulty finding their pulse or counting the beats accurately. The instructor can assist them by using a stopwatch or a heart rate monitor, or by pairing them with a partner who can help them.
• Some swimmers may be shy or reluctant to say positive things about themselves or others. The instructor can encourage them by giving examples, praising their efforts, and creating a supportive environment.
• Some swimmers may get too excited or competitive and swim too fast or too slow, which may affect their heart rate and breathing. The instructor can remind them to swim at a comfortable speed and focus on their own performance.