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Lesson 8 - Kicking & Breathing Basics

Foundations & Water Confidence

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Year 2

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Swimming

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Big Question

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

Kickboards

1 per student (30)

Stack at pool edge for easy distribution

Alternative: Pool noodles can be used as substitute flotation

Softballs

15 (for partner balance activity)

Keep in container at pool side

Alternative: Foam shapes or rubber ducks

Tag Belts

12.5 for support

Various sizes available for different body types

Alternative: Pool noodles worn around waist

Arm Discs

20 pairs

Inflate to appropriate firmness

Alternative: Small kickboards under arms

Key Vocabulary

Kicking action

Alternating leg movement from the hips to propel through water

Body position

Horizontal alignment in water with hips lifted

Breathing rhythm

Regular pattern of breathing while face is in water

Propulsion

Forward movement through water using body actions

Kickboard

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

Legs kick alternately from hips not knees

Comfortable breathing pattern established

Body position remains horizontal during kicking

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