Name

Hurdles and Limbos

Core Skill

The primary skill developed in this game is underwater comfort and breath control. Swimmers will practice going underwater and holding their breath, which is essential for building confidence in the water. Additionally, this game helps improve coordination and body control as swimmers navigate over and under obstacles.

Who

This game is designed for level 1 and level 2 swimmers who are still getting comfortable with going underwater. It is suitable for young children or beginners who need to build confidence and basic underwater skills.

What

In this game, swimmers will take turns navigating over and under an object held by the instructor. The object can be a bucket, a pole, or even the instructor’s arm. The game starts with the object held low, making it easy to step over, and gradually increases in height to challenge the swimmers. Once the object is too high to step over, swimmers will switch to going under it, practicing their limbo skills.

How

1. Setup: The class takes place in shallow water, about chest-deep for the swimmers. The instructor holds an object (bucket, pole, or arm) underwater.
2. Starting Easy: The instructor holds the object very low, allowing swimmers to easily walk or jump over it.
3. Increasing Difficulty: After each successful pass, the instructor raises the object slightly, making it progressively harder to step over.
4. Switching to Limbo: Once the object is too high to step over, the instructor instructs swimmers to go under it. Swimmers take turns limboing under the object, which is gradually lowered to increase difficulty.
5. Repetition: The game continues with swimmers alternating between stepping over and limboing under the object until they can no longer do so without touching it.

Difficulties Instructors Might Face

1. Fear of Going Underwater: Some swimmers may be hesitant or fearful of going underwater. Instructors need to be patient and provide encouragement and support.
2. Coordination Challenges: Younger or less coordinated swimmers might struggle with the physical demands of stepping over or limboing under the object. Instructors should offer guidance and adjust the difficulty as needed.
3. Maintaining Engagement: Keeping young swimmers engaged and motivated can be challenging. Instructors should use positive reinforcement and make the game fun and exciting.
4. Safety Concerns: Ensuring that all swimmers are safe and not pushing themselves too hard is crucial. Instructors should closely monitor each swimmer and adjust the game to suit their abilities.