Lesson 8 - Kicking & Breathing Basics
Foundations & Water Confidence
•Year 2
•Swimming
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How can I use my legs powerfully to move through water while controlling my breathing?
Learning Objectives
- To develop a controlled kicking action from the hips
- To introduce rhythmic breathing techniques during swimming
- To maintain body position while using a kickboard
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate improved leg kick coordination
- Students will show confidence putting face in water and breathing rhythmically
- Students will maintain straight body position during kickboard activities
Equipment & Resources Required
Stack at pool edge for easy distribution
Alternative: Pool noodles can be used as substitute flotation
Keep in container at pool side
Alternative: Foam shapes or rubber ducks
Various sizes available for different body types
Alternative: Pool noodles worn around waist
Inflate to appropriate firmness
Alternative: Small kickboards under arms
Key Vocabulary
Alternating leg movement from the hips to propel through water
Horizontal alignment in water with hips lifted
Regular pattern of breathing while face is in water
Forward movement through water using body actions
Flotation aid held in front to support upper body during leg practice
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic water confidence and floating
- Ability to enter pool safely
- Understanding of basic water safety
Current Skills
- Controlled kicking action from hips
- Coordinated breathing with face submersion
- Using kickboard for propulsion
Next Steps
- Arm action introduction
- Combined arm and leg coordination
- Independent swimming over longer distances
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Kicking action comes from hips, not knees, for maximum propulsion
- Body position must remain horizontal with hips lifted to surface
- Breathing rhythm of 6 kicks helps establish consistent technique
- Kickboard held with extended arms maintains proper body alignment
- Teamwork and encouragement enhance learning for all ability levels
- Progressive skill building from pool edge to independent movement
- Water safety principles reinforced throughout every activity
Common Misconceptions
- Misconception: Kicking from knees is more powerful. Reality: Hip-driven kicks create greater propulsion
- Misconception: Lifting head straight up is best for breathing. Reality: Side breathing is more efficient
- Misconception: Faster kicking always means faster swimming. Reality: Controlled technique beats speed
- Misconception: Holding breath underwater is safer. Reality: Bubble blowing maintains calmness
- Misconception: Only arms matter for swimming. Reality: Legs provide primary propulsion in many strokes
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries marked in pool, regular positive reinforcement
dyspraxia
- Extra time for coordination development, simplified instructions, additional practice opportunities
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule for lesson progression, quiet zones at pool edge if needed
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured kickboards, detailed verbal descriptions of technique, tactile guidance for body position
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations of all techniques, hand signals for instructions, written technique cards
physical disability
- Adapted kickboards for different grips, additional buoyancy support, modified exit techniques
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting kicks and breathing rhythms, measuring distances swum, timing relay races
Science
Understanding buoyancy and floating, learning about breathing and oxygen, forces in water
Geography
Discussing different swimming strokes from around the world, water safety in different environments
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, building confidence, supporting others with different abilities
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around pool edge to observe all students, position near deep end during kicking practice
Observation Focus
Watch for correct body position, breathing confidence, and teamwork interactions
Intervention Points
Step in if students showing distress with face submersion or struggling with breathing rhythm
Demonstration Notes
Get in pool to demonstrate all techniques clearly, exaggerate movements for visibility
Verbal Cues
- •'Kick from your hips like you're wearing giant flippers!'
- •'Blow bubbles like you're making bubble tea!'
- •'Float those hips like corks on water!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Pool teaching area minimum 10m x 8m, water depth 0.8-1.2m suitable for Year 2
Surface Check
Pool area checked for slip hazards, appropriate grip on pool edge for exits
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Kickboards checked for cracks or sharp edges
- •Flotation aids properly inflated and secure
- •Small toys confirmed as floating and safe if swallowed
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Drowning during breathing practice
- •Slips on pool edge during entry/exit
- •Collisions during relay activities
- •Panic during face submersion
Risk Mitigation
- •Constant supervision during breathing practice
- •Clear movement patterns established for relays
- •Optional support aids available for less confident swimmers
- •Progressive introduction of face-in-water activities
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all students
- •Extra attention during breathing development activities
- •Monitor for signs of fatigue during extended practice
Emergency Procedures
Immediate pool exit for any distress, first aid qualified staff present, emergency procedures displayed poolside