What
is it?
The movement through water using limbs for propulsion. Swimming is an important
life skill and can contribute to the health and safety of all those who take
part. The Personal Survival and Challenge awards assess a variety of skills
limited to the development of endurance and educate individuals about survival
techniques.
Safety
Message
Swimming indoors in a warm pleasant environment is very different from swimming
in open water. Tides, currents and cold water present many difficulties and
only those with an appropriate level of skill and understanding should enter
open water.
Ideas/Aims
In addition to swimming on a regular basis (either individually or through
a group/club) you should also:
• Set appropriate targets to aim towards
over the required period.
• Learn and develop your proficiency in the
stroke chosen, or in each of the four strokes.
• Increase your distance/improve on your
time gradually during the required period.
• Keep a record of your times/distances swum.
• Aim for an award/standard as set by the
Amateur Swimming Association.
• Compete in school, club or local competitions
if appropriate.
When taking these awards you should spend time mastering the range of skills
involved whilst also developing your ability to swim over great distances
whilst still maintaining effective techniques.
Review/Assessment
All the included skills should be assessed but it is also important to check
the individuals understanding relating to survival in cold water and safety
in and around water. Progress should be reviewed against individual targets
set.
Governing
Body/Organisation
Amateur Swimming Association, Harold Fern House, Derby Square, Loughborough,
Leicestershire, LE11 5AL
Tel: 01509 618 700
