Correcting techniques for age group swim coaches

The following techniques can be used to help your swimmers correct technical problems during the workout.

The set is 6x100 Free on 2:00.  You ask the kids to focus on their streamlines and dolphin kicks off of each wall.  At some point during the set you will notice one or more swimmers poorly executing their streamlines.  First, use the Verbal/Visual technique.  If that doesn't work to your satisfaction and the child is still pushing off the walls with unsatisfactory streamlines, then go to the Tactile approach.  If you are still not getting the desired results on a consistent basis, then add on Tactile Conditioning.   The key is to be patient and assume or imagine that they are brand new swimmers that are learning this skill for the very first time.  

1.  Verbal/Visual:  First, stop the child.  Tell the child what he needs to be doing correctly.  Show the child by making the correct movements yourself.  Then allow him to continue.

-"Hey Chris.  Make sure you are locking your elbows behind your head.  That will keep your streamline tight and ensure you have maximum speed of your walls."

2.  Tactile:  Calmly ask the child to exit the water.  Make sure he doesn't feel like he is getting in trouble.  Use the Verbal/Visual technique and follow it up by making the child repeat the movements themselves.  If he is having trouble making the correct movements then you can carefully help him by guiding his actions.

-"Chris.  Why don't you come out here so we can work on your streamlines.  OK, you see how tight my arms are behind my head?  There is no space between my head and my arms.  Now you show me your streamline.  Good job!"

3.  Tactile Conditioning:  Stop the child.  Ask them nicely to repeat the action correctly.  Do this until they accurately perform the technique.  Also, include the other correction techniques to help if needed.

-"Chris.  Can you do that flip-turn for me again?  This time show me your great streamline and add 5 dolphin kicks.  Excellent."

You can use these techniques for just about any skill that you teach your age group swimmers. Some specific skills may require a little more creativity in order to successfully adapt these correcting techniques to your workout.  Be patient and HAVE FUN!  If you feel yourself getting frustrated at your swimmers for butchering your perfectly planned workout, use these techniques.