How to swim

by James H. Sterrett

THE CRAWL, SECOND POSITION, EXHALING UNDER WATER.

THE CRAWL, THIRD POSITION, TAKING A BREATH.

But, as we will show and explain both methods, the reader who does not know how, can choose either one, and if he is taught by a professional instructor, or some expert amateur coach, it matters not which way he learns, so that he accomplishes the first object—to keep the body afloat and propel it by means of the arms and legs.

The very first thing you want to get in your mind, and fasten it there firmly, is the fact that there are only three things necessary to become a good swimmer—the proper timing of the stroke, or what experts call the alternate action or harmony (timing); breathing; and the ability to relax; and when you have acquired these things—and every one can master them—you will not only be able to swim well and without effort, but go indefinite distances in the water just as easily as walking on the land, and swim as long as your vitality will permit and the lowered temperature of the body will allow.

The Breast Stroke

And now for the simple lessons, beginning with the breast stroke.

To swim the breast stroke the beginner lies flat on the water, being supported by water wings, rubber life preserver, or held up in shallow water by the hand of a friend or instructor. The body, except the head and shoulders, is submerged a few inches under the water, the arms and legs outstretched in a line with the body, the hands, with palms downward, touching. The toes, knees and feet should be pointing outward.

When beginning the stroke it is best to make the movements with three counts. At “one” the hands are parted, describing a semi-circle, and at “two” are brought up under the chin, the knees being simultaneously brought up under the body, pointing outward, the legs being separated. At “three” the hands are shot out in front of the body and the legs whipped together, completing the full stroke, the body being allowed to float for an instant before again beginning the stroke, to get the benefit of the run as well as a little rest between strokes.