The Propeller
To perform the propelling trick it is necessary that the swimmer be able to float well, for by that means the body is supported in the water, while the hands, extended beyond the head, the back of the hands pointing downwards, propel the swimmer, feet foremost, through the water. Place the body on or near the surface of the water as possible, lying on the back, the feet and legs fully extended and close together, the hands beyond the head, also in a straight line. Then, by a vigorous sculling movement of the hands against the water, the body is sent gradually but steadily forward, the quick action of the hands against the water having the same effect in driving the body forward as the propeller of a boat. Some pretty turning movements like the directing of the course of a boat with a rudder can be made by propelling with one hand only or each alternately, as the case may be, as, by sculling with the right hand, the body will glide or take an opposite course, while the left hand movement will direct to the right.