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Self-help
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Swimming
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The Shaw Method of
Swimming
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Swimming
is the ideal environment to apply the Alexander
Technique. The water offers the opportunity to improve your level of fitness without
injury or strain . However the full health benefits of swimming can only be
obtained if the swimmer has good technique. In fact poor technique can actually do more harm than good. Bad style can aggravate old injuries and
cause neck, shoulder and back pain.
Are
you afraid of the water and think you are too old to learn to swim ?
If the answer is yes to any
of the above questions, a new teaching approach could help transform your
swimming.
Swimming is widely reputed to be the best overall form of exercise for
maintaining a general level of fitness and well-being. However, people
with poor technique can actually do themselves more harm than good. Bad
style can aggravate old injuries and cause neck, shoulder and back pain.
Steven and Limor Shaw have
pioneered a new approach. The Shaw Method of Swimming combines principles
from the Alexander Technique with modern swimming instruction to help you
discover a sense of calm and balance in the water. This approach is
outlined in Steven's book The Art of Swimming, co-written with Armand
D'Angour.
Traditionally, the
instructor remains out of the water. In this new approach, the instructor
offers guidance and support from within the water. Pool sessions last 45
minutes and in addition, there will be one out of water session where you
will have the opportunity to discuss your progress and view yourself on
video. Classes will be kept small to maintain the highest teaching
standards.
SHAW
TIPS TO A MORE CONFIDENT SWIM
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Do
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Don't
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Practise
letting go and allowing the water to support
you.
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Hold in
stomach or hunch shoulders fearfully, even
if it is chilly or you think others are watching. You will
not be able to relax in the water. |
Pay
attention to how you are swimming, in the same way
as you might concentrate while playing the piano. This will improve your strokes and add to your pleasure.
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Rush.
Hurried movements are less likely to tone the
muscles or relax the mind. Aim for smooth, graceful
movements and focus on enjoying each stroke.
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Smile.
Many swimmers look tense and worried. Smiling will relax facial muscles - and consequently the rest of
your body. |
Compete
with other swimmers - or with yourself.
Setting targets, such as 20 or 30 laps, prevents you from
enjoying the pleasure of being in water.
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If you
wish, swim for a set time - 30 minutes or so -
but maintain your interest by changing the pace. Vary the
strokes to work different muscle groups.
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Hold your
breath. This is often an unconscious
reaction to being in the water, but can lead to
hyperventilation and a feeling of panic.
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Be
playful.
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Don't try
too hard. "Free your neck, and your mind will
follow." |
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This page was last updated on 02/07/2005 00:00:00
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