Swimming Pace/Endurance

Question
Hi-I began learning to swim from scratch 5 months ago. I began with learning the dead man's float, then learning to stand in shallow water to prevent panic. I'm pointing out that I've come a long way in a short period of time. I was fortunate to meet a coach that dedicated time to teaching me several days a week. Now that we have both moved on I am so happy to say I can swim the full length of the pull, but I require breaks in-between. I can float face down and on my back, some breaststroke type treading in deep water is all I can do. I see people, like my former coach and others who tread in deep water just using their hands. I realize it takes practice, but what is the best way to learn this technique and develop strength or feel to accomplish this? Learning to tread for a sufficient period of time would help me relax so much more in the deep end, and build my confidence in learning more of this sport I've come to love.

Answer
Dee,
Great question.  Treading water is ALL about relaxing.  Actually swimming in general is about relaxing.  If you become nervous and "tense" your muscles, you will not be able to float as well.

I know that relaxing is easier said than done.  Believe me I do.  :-)

The key to treading water is to keep your arms out away from your body.  Use long and sweeping motions.  Don't move your arms too quickly.  The idea is to use as little energy as possible while maintaining your floating body.  Use an "S" shape to the sweeping motion with your hands, but make sure you keep your arms out away from your body.  Your legs should be doing a breastroke type of kick.  Alternate your legs.

Yes, that is a lot of things going on at the same time.  However, you already know that swimming is not an easy sport to learn.  There are so many things to think about at once.  Try to concentrate on only three things at one time.  If you think about any more than three, you will go crazy!!!  Just think about three things at once.  Practice these.  Practice.  Practice.  Practice.  You need to (1) get comfortable, (2) relax your muscles, and (3) practice.

I don't know if this really answered your question or not.  I will say this though, the answer to any endurance questions is repetition.  You must repeat exercises to gain endurance.  Practice does make perfect!

Please let me know if I answered your questions well enough.  I want to provide you the best service possible.  Also, feel free to rate me on this site.

Thank you.
Eric