YMCA update

Well, things are going swimmingly at the Kerr YMCA. Last week, I held our monthly Total Immersion Taster (clinic), which lasts 2 hrs and gives an intro to TI. It is free, since the Y is so supportive of TI programming. 12 adults attended, grasped and began using TI techniques. There were many comments like - this feels so much easier, I can't believe I never knew how to swim like this, this is more relaxed, and I swam further strokes to get across than ever!

I was delighted to observe, once again, that when any swimmer puts certain principles into practice, improvement is guaranteed. Several swimmers swam fewer strokes in 25 yds, after simple adjustments. One person went from 28 to 21 SPL, and another 24 to 19 SPL. Probably the most excited individual was a woman who has been teaching swimming her whole life, after realizing the difference TI makes.

Next TI Taster at Kerr Y is December 13, from 12:15-2:15 pm. Call 562-9622 to register.

TI progressing

I am delighted to share that the inaugural group of TI lessons at the Kerr Y are doing very well! It is such fun to teach swimmers who are so eager to learn, and readily apply your instruction. Definitely good for the coach's ego. After three classes, each student has learned to find balance in the water and cooperate with gravity.

Why is this so critical? Finding balance in the water enables you to identify the ideal body position, then maintain that position as you build up to a complete stroke. Just the minor adjustment of having a relaxed head position, face down in the water, will prevent the legs from sinking. Only a light flutter kick is needed to move gracefully forward. The wrong head position, such as looking forward, will cause the legs to sink, and the instinctual reaction is to kick harder. Thus, the swimmer begins what can be called "survival swimming," and is huffin' and puffin' in less than one length.

The swimmers in this group are simply following directions, making simple adjustments, and attaining major gains. It works for any swimmer at any skill level!

The Results are Coming In...

Here's a note from a swimmer who took 1 private lesson:

Brian - I am so excited. I've been swimming so much better. I know you didn't show me arms yet, but I incorported them any way and I did so many more many laps than I have ever done. I didn't want to stop swimming...

TI works. It truly does.

Y Lessons in 3 days!

Currently, there are 5 swimmers registered for the Total Immersion Swim Lessons that begin this Wednesday. Ages range from 12 to over 40 yrs old. I am excited to get started, and to have such a motivated assistant, Bridget. I've also started private lessons for children at the Y, though not officially Total Immersion-based. It is amazing to witness how simple adjustments in technique transform into instant success and satisfaction for the student, whether he/she is an adult or child.
"TI likes to move it, move it..." (Madagascar 2 is coming out)