floating and swimming

Question
Hi Kate,

I'm 14 years of age and i took 2 weeks swimming lesson 2 months ago. Before that, I couldn't swim or float at all.
But after the lesson, I can float very well on my back but I cannot swim properly. I can actually, but it's just that I'm having problems when I turn to the side to breathe. I get tired quickly and can't focus. I can only swim about 9 metres. I want to swim better, do you have any tips?

One more thing.. I wonder how people can stay floating in deep water (not on their back) but they look like they're standing up when their feet are not even touching the bottom of the pool. How do you do that?

thanks

Answer
Hello,
Learning to swim takes time. I would suggest trying to build up your endurance by using a kickboard and kicking with it across the pool. This will build your leg strength up. Then you can practice breathing with the kickboard with out your arms then you can add your arms at the end.

Treading is done by kicking your feet and moving your hands in a vertical motion. I would suggest using a kick like bicycling and using an egg beater.

Good Luck