How to Do Back Float: Miracle Swimming

See 4 people learning to back float with an infallible system: Miracle Swimming. Take your time!
For information about our book, online course, video, podcast, visit www.miracleswi... .
There you can find the other products, as well.

[@joyclark1731]

I am 32 years old and as far as I can remember, I had a fear of water because I almost drowned as a child. So I made a promise to myself that I would learn to swim this year. Just yesterday I floated for the first time, and then eventually swam from point A to point B. it is all about being comfortable. You are a great instructor. A little confidence goes a LONG and I am determined to get better!

[@حلمجميل-غ5ط]

Joy Clark ❤

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Thank you.

[@dwn144]

Joy Clark I had the same issue but found a really good teacher who is a lot like Melon. They explain things so clearly

[@keshavacharyanp]

carry on you can brother.....

[@savannahtoreno8640]

Im 10 and i almost drowned when i was 8 and today at that same spot i drowned i can swim in!

[@kulecter]

i remember the first time i realized I could float on my back. I was 47 years old and it was magical. I took many swim lessons but I never learned to really swim but after watching this, I might try again (now age 56).

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

You would probably not learn to swim from most traditional lessons. They teach strokes. They don't teach you to swim. This is not commonly known. It sounds crazy but it's true.

[@kulecter]

After watching youtube videos, I now know I needed a different type of swim lesson. I was being taught the same way children were being taught. For me and my husband, that method wasn't effective, at least in my opinion. Thanks for your response. Cheers to you for this great video.

[@zoulikhaghennam9548]

me to inchallah we Will.....

[@bruce_NZ]

I feel its like meditation as one can't hear outside noise/sound as ones ears are inside water and you only focus on breathing, pedaling slowly.

[@LaloGómez-o6i]

Yes, you absolutly right miss.I try to learn in a tradittional class, and i can't.My first time was at the age of 11 years old, and in the first class,just to beguin, the teacher ordered "...jump into the pool" , he doesn't care if you know how to swim ,or float,that experience was scaring. My second time was at the age of 20 and in my first class, nothin,i was full of panic,just being there close to the wall,;in my second class, ¡¡¡ I flote for the first time in my life in my back!!!But in the next class, it was the same and worst "..jump into the pool..", but this time the pool got 6 feet. Finaly , at the age of 35, I LEARN TO SWIM, by my side ,a personal trainer who was kind and patiently in extreme,just keep trying , congratulations .

[@munaaljonaidy571]

how patient u r !!! that's appreciated . I wish my instructor has that patience

[@angelap7038]

muna aljonaidy is

[@mrs.l6084]

some people are born to be patient

[@sanika70]

You. No. English

[@yumam5311]

sanika70 people sometimes says u as you and r as are

[@ayanaj1006]

Thanks for this - very encouraging! I'm struggling with breathing, floating, basically everything. Just started a beginners class and am glad for this video. I need all the encouragement I can get!

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

+Ayana J That means you're afraid in water (to me). It does not pay to take lessons that teach stroke mechanics if you're afraid in water. That type of lessons, traditional or conventional lessons, do not teach you to swim. They teach you strokes, which actually come after learning to swim. Most instructors do not know this.

[@initit7070]

@@MelonDashMiracleSwimming it’s damn true

[@themanthemyth7950]

I learned how to float a couple weeks ago, It felt amazzzzzzing!... Was able to do it in about mins, I am able to put both hands behind my head as I do it all kinder stuff... It's all about relaxing, not going crazy when you feel water in your ear (This is was my main issue) AND keeping as much air in your lungs as possible to start... Not as afraid of the deep anymore as a result, just have to learn how to thread water and not use too much energy.... I can stay in the deep for about mins now.. Before soon as my feel not touching, I started to freak out and down I go in seconds. I learned it on the beach, and when I tried it in the pool, was okay but sunk faster (something else I learned), your body stays afloat better in ocean water.

[@lyhthegreat]

ocean is easier to float but much harder to swim in as the waves is constantly crashing against your face..

[@chinmayh2745]

The legend

[@faithgodwin2960]

Very true about your body floating better in the ocean than the pool. I just experienced it right now

[@mburks3748]

Yep. An odd conundrum isn’t it? You float 10X better in deeper water than you do in shallow. When you’re learning how to float in shallower water, it’s actually much, much hard to stay afloat. But once you’ve mastered both front and back, along with their recoveries and then you try them in deeper water, you’ll notice that it takes almost no effort at all to stay afloat.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Let there be no misinformation on this channel. It may be harder for YOU to float in shallower water, but it is not harder to float in shallow water. Perhaps you're trying to keep your feet off the bottom. Don't do that.

[@MargoDean1]

Melon Dash is one of the real heroes for folks who are afraid to swim. I've watched her in action and I've seen the results. Kudos Melon Dash!

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

+Margo Dean Thanks, Margo! I was thinking of you just before you posted this. Hi!

[@THROWEMOFFBUILDINGS]

this is absolutely the best thing to show someone who doesn't know how to swim..these simlified baby-steps are the building blocks to both practice and also to understand how things work..thank you very much, hope to see more in the future.

[@unknowndeoxys00]

This is wonderful. Everything is going at such a slow, easy pace. I kinda have some of these basics down but I still have some trouble being fully relaxed in the water, as well as knowing how to float without having the wall nearby like a subconscious lifesaver. My learning to swim would skyrocket if there was a class like yours in my town!

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Yes, we hope you will find your way to a class so you can be free. We are in a dozen cities in the U.S. Go to the miracleswimming.org website and look under the Classes tab, then Licensed Instructors. Our book would also help you. Best wishes.

[@katrinamy3009]

I'm learn to swim through youtube video and your video was soo helpful! Thanx!

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

You're welcome, Katrina!

[@tricedennishirr4516]

I have used this method of teaching the back float for over 50 years. When I learned it, I knew it was a game changer, especially little ones who want to put their feet on the wall and push off which causes you to go under. This method also automatically teaches people how to stand back up by allowing your feet to touch. Love it!

[@DS_UKD]

I'm 17 and I've had a fear of swimming and deep water for a few years, I'm slowly trying and learn to float and swim, I'll be watching this video a fair few times and remember the tips for the next time I go to my nearest swimming centre, wish there was a miracle swimming centre here in the UK if so I'd love to know where! I'm very keen to get over this fear and learn to swim.... I will one day, that is the dream

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

+Dan Smithyy HI, Dan. There are 3 Miracle Swimming instructors in the U.K. In Headley (Borden), Sarah and Robbie Manns; in Cambridge, John Turland. They can help you!! They know our system and they learned it specifically to help you. Best wishes!

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

We're bringing Miracle Swimming to Dublin April 15-26, 2019. www.miracleswimming.org/all-courses/beginner-course/beginning-course-ireland-5-day.html

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Come to Dublin, Ireland April 15-19, 2019 and take our Beginning Course. See miracleswimming.org. Look at Course Schedule.

[@laika421]

Thank you so much for sharing this. Way better than the back glide to back float that the 19 year old instructor is trying with us. I tense up when I try to float ON the water. Can't wait until next lesson to try this method!

[@Miniseriesoflife]

I enjoy watching your lessons, great job. I am a new to swimming lesson too, I watched a love of swimming lessons on youtube. Thanks for sharing

[@mburks3748]

I enjoy how you guys actually take your time in learning this and move very slowly when doing so. My instructions usually have my swim class do this out in the middle of the pool for some odd reason with very little support. Almost like a trial by fire type deal or something. We’re in this awkward custom made pool where it’s impossible to really hug the side of the pool due to poor designing, so we don’t really have much of a choice! They never truly showed us how to properly stand up out of this position either, so I wind up drinking water and falling almost every time I try it! Good thing I practice the recovery move on my own time. That’s really my biggest obstacle on that matter.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

It takes a lot of guts to be an adult in traditional swimming lessons. I have to hand it to you. It doesn't have to be like that, though. One day they will understand. Glad you found us.

[@gachi_school]

Learnt to back float with the help of this video...Thank You

[@mahavenkat2863]

Hi Melon, impressed while watching your video. I'm doing my adult beginner's learning. completed 5-6 classes. now, I'm learning backstroke. watching your video gives lot of hope and confidence. my problem is how to gently recover back when doing backstroke. need your advice please.

[@TalkingChimp88]

Thank you Melon! I have watched this video 3 times! I am teaching an adult class, and one of my students is having tremendous difficulty learning this skill. (All my other students have mastered it and advanced.) I have never tried the technique in this video; I'm eager to try it out today with my non-floating student! He has the ability to float, just like everyone else; I think he simply does not *believe* that he can, which is interfering. The other problem is that we (instructors) are told to teach them how to float with legs up (as per US Masters curriculum). If I can get him to float "legs down" then maybe he will become comfortable and "feel safe" enough to gently kick his feet to raise his legs. (I found that when I try to back-float, my legs automatically rise because of habit. It takes effort for me to relax enough and allow my legs to fall. I've been swimming for the past 60 years (thru high school, and then thru US Masters), and I forget what it is like to be new to the water, and why it feels so foreign and scary to adults. This morning, I spent 30 minutes trying to replicate what my non-floating student is doing (legs sinking, chest sinking, then head sinking), just so I can know what he is feeling (teachers need empathy!). I can't correct him unless I know what he's doing "wrong." This video has offered me a new approach. Thank you! - Matt

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

You're welcome, TalkingChimp88. Glad to help! Who tells you that people should float with feet off the bottom? Fire them. Adult swimming lessons are in a state of emergency due to instructions like that. www.pr.com/press-release/917482

[@TalkingChimp88]

@@MelonDashMiracleSwimming It's not that back floating must be horizontal. It's that we'll eventually move to the deep end, where there is no bottom. So, diagonal floating is okay, but there won't be a bottom for feet to touch. The most valuable part of this video is listening to the questions by the students and your answers. I also love the excitement of the students when they "get it." I didn't understand, however, why you put your foot on the student's foot to keep it on the floor. (around 12:00)

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

@@TalkingChimp88 Dear Caring Instructor. This is flawed thinking that he should float without his feet on the bottom because he won't have that bottom in the deep end. Please do my instructor training. When it's ready. As much as you want to help, you (and thousands of others) are preventing this student from learning to float. Too much to explain here.

[@greatestever8825]

I just learned how to float on my back in my swimming class today!!!

[@nadianordien4443]

I cannot swim and have a pool at home. My husband and kids love swimming and my eight year old is always telling me, "Mommy I will teach you to swim". She is so sweet

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

There is a way to be 100% successful. Please see our website: miracleswimming.org. Best wishes!

[@mrstarboy4k]

I had been struggling with back floating and obviously swimming. Then I watched this video and it proved to be a game changer for me. I am indebted. I believe you must post similar coaching videos on freestyle swimming too, especially breathing while swimming free style. Keep good work up!

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

You're welcome, Saqib. We will eventually have those videos you're requesting. Need funding.

[@jsmithiii3722]

cant wait join your class in jan and finally conquer my fear.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Glad you're coming, Jay!

[@samfifahd9165]

I only started swimming like 3 weeks ago and I could do it by myself and it could swing 👌🏻😎

[@tewesathemonkey]

My favorite part was when the lady was "floating" and she didn't even realize it! That was so cool. I wish that I was able to join your class...it is sooo helpful. But, God Bless you for sharing your skills with us. It's good to know that we can naturally FLOAT even we are not in the "salty" DEAD SEA! LOL

[@johnnie618]

You are an awesome instructor! I wish you were with me when I was on my family vacation.... was in the water for two days and still can't swim. It's kinda hard to relax when the water is near you nostrils...lol. I guess practice makes perfect.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Thanks. I wish I'd been there, too, lol. Practice does not make perfect: practicing the right thing makes perfect. Stroke parts are not the right thing to practice if you want to overcome your fear in water. FYI!

[@maryv1677]

I m from singapore since frim march 2018 i m watching your beginners swimming video at 59 i learn swimmi.ng its almost 3 months i follow your steps of doing and bring these video clips to the swimming pool. I always tell my fellow beginners i watched melon dash swimming videos and very swimming tips help me a lot .what tracy says i m floating and i also tell i m floating oh!!! thank God i m floating... thank u so much coach beautifully taught ..simple instructions ..we can understand .thank u so much God bless u

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Thank you, Mary V.

[@mesarvagya777]

Wish me luck, I am finally trying to learn to swim. Thanks Melon for this video.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

You're welcome, Mesarvagya777. Thank you.

[@azizehsaljoghei9024]

This video is very good and informative.

[@liliankugonza5047]

I wish all trainers were like u. Good job madam 👍👍👍👍

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Thank you 😊

[@tewesathemonkey]

Nothing is missing from your tutorials...those people that checked "thumbs down" are TROLLING to get negative responses. They are HATERS...TROLLS!

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Thanks. I guess there are actually people like that.

[@rinpuiitlau2414]

Best instructor ever👍🏼😍

[@sallywong8426]

Great coach with lots of love and patience

[@lydiadavidson]

Dear Melon, I wish I could join your class, I am in India and i failed miserably in the swimming class that I took last summer. since then i used a kick board to help me feel safe. only last week did i realised that the water holds me up and I got comfortable gliding away from the edge of the pool. However I am scared of the deep end of the pool and when i watch your videos I really want to enrol in your classes. You are so right that being comfortable in the water is so important before learning strokes.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Hi, Lydia, I wish you could join our classes, too. As a substitute for now, go to a pool that's only 1-2 feet deep and feel yourself floating there with your hands on the bottom. Best wishes!

[@lydiadavidson]

Melon Dash, thanks, I am going to try that out.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Lydia, we're bringing Miracle Swimming to Dublin, Ireland April 15-26, 2019. www.miracleswimming.org/all-courses/beginner-course/beginning-course-ireland-5-day.html

[@Beech1900pilot]

This is very relaxing to watch! I think I need a nap

[@dsharma1978]

What is the most effortless way to recover from back float I wonder? I try to push water back with my hands while pressing down but it doesn't always work, particularly if your legs are way up over the water.

[@deidrejordan2761]

This is a great video

[@aadyasharma9348]

Thanks for this video i was trying back floating but i always drawned . I was very sad weather i will learn it or not But after watching this video just in 2 days i learnt back float . So thank you

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

You're welcome. miracleswimming.com

[@bahrany90]

It is very useful and easy explanation

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Thank you.

[@lolasunmonu5674]

I'm in NYC and trying to learn how to swim after 50+ years. Are you by any chance have classes in NYC?

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

We are teaching our Next Step class in NYC today and this past weekend. We may have found a pool we can begin offering classes in. We'll know in the next couple of weeks. Thanks for your interest.

[@orrief3806]

Hi Lola, There is a Miracle Swimming licensed instructor in Monsey, NY. That's in Rockland County, a little more than an hour away from NYC. Check Melon's Miracle Swimming web site's list of licensed instructors. I'm starting her beginning course next week. I got Melon's book and DVD, and found both helpful in understanding the MS method.

[@حلمجميل-غ5ط]

Melon Dash Waiting you in algeria ❤

[@nadianordien4443]

I have a lot of respect for you with all your patience.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Thank you, Nadia. It's easy to be patient.

[@mrs.l6084]

This is seriously the best video I’ve seen ever !

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

I'd like to quote you on that.

[@Puangur]

Thanks a ton, i have learn back float from this vedio 😘😘😘. Could you please upload the vedio on treading in deep water as i am unable to do so

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

A video on treading will come. But this is important in the meantime! miracleswimming.com/treading-water/

[@shineworkout]

How do you get back to standing position

[@TheScott3387]

I am just learning how to float on my back!

[@rossd6416]

I love the patient the trainer has

[@justinenakayima9798]

Am in Netherlands 28yrs ,tomorrow am beginning my first swimming lesson ,but am a kind of person who panic when water touches my face even under the shower,this was nice 👍🏻

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

I hope you will take the same approach with your lesson as we do in this video: the most important thing is to only do what's comfortable and take your time. The goal is comfort, not floating or anything else. From comfort, everything else will come.

[@alex-nq9xd]

I have a question if anyone can answer when you float on your back obviously you need air in your lungs to keep you afloat from what I heard the lady say, so can we breathe normally or do we have to I inhale deep breaths and exhale all of it out then do it again ??

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

+TooBlowwn Slim You may or may not need much air in your lungs to float on your back. It depends on your body's buoyancy. What happens when you hold a big breath and float? Try it. When you run out of air, stand up, don't exhale that huge breath while still floating. What happens when you breathe comfortably? I can't see you floating, so I can't tell you how you should breathe. You need to find a comfortable way to float. Try those things first. If your body is not very buoyant and you take in a lot of air, you'll have to let it out and doing so may make you lose so much buoyancy that your face goes below the surface. You don't want that, so stand up before you feel your face go under. Breathing shallowly may be the way to go. After you learn more about the water and how it works and feels, you'll be able to get some lift from your hands. Then you can get all the air you want, exhale all the breath you need to in order to remain comfortable, and support yourself a bit (enough) with your hands with little movement. Remember, you're NOT trying to keep your feet off the bottom when you float!

[@cocoversache]

I just started adult swimming lessons and we tried the back float. I couldn't for the life of me. I was made to believe my whole body -legs included had to float. I wish I could join your class. Where are you located ?

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Yes, I wish you could come to a class where the instructors know what they're doing!!!!!! To find all our locations, go to miracleswimming dot com. Then look under the instructor tab, then Licensed Satellite schools. Headquarters are in Sarasota, FL. We have a class Feb. 1-5. Our book would help you a lot. You'll see it on our website. Very best wishes.

[@ashubabbar3637]

Great drill, what's the next step ,do i kick to being my legs ups?

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

No. Leave your legs down. Watch again.

[@ashubabbar3637]

@@MelonDashMiracleSwimming Hello. Yes I am able to replicate the steps in the video. After I can float do I learn to kick while backfloating?

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

NO. Next is to pull yourself along with your arms. Let your legs trail, even if they're down. That doesn't matter now. @@ashubabbar3637

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

@@ashubabbar3637 You could. But you'll get more from pulling. Don't add arms unless you can be calm. I don't give swimming lessons on KZbin so if you want the rest, pls read my book. Everything you ever wanted to know about learning to swim and never got in lessons is there. Conquer Your Fear of Water, A Revolutionary Way...

[@form76]

Great Instructor , Patient Knowlegeable Tenacious .Wish all Instructors were like Her.

[@eileenpritchard7395]

Can this technique be used with a young child? I have just watched my 5 year old grandson at his fourth swimming lesson. He is confident on his back with a noodle float and generally so in the water. However the teacher then gave the children one of those slim rectangular floats to hold with two hands on their chest - a much less stable arrangement to my mind. He was waiting for his turn to be set off and had a go himself - he very quickly rotated on to his front and despite still holding the float was in some difficulty. This went unnoticed by the teacher in the water and no lifeguard was in sight - thankfully, he twisted round and kicked for the side about 2 metres away and got to the side - he could barely touch the floor of the pool. He had a similar experience later in the lesson, but the teacher was nearby and helped. It is inherently dangerous exercise I think and it has knocked his confidence. We live in Shropshire and have noted that teachers using this technique do not live near us - please could you advise me if one does start to work locally. Is there any written material that might help me use the technique with my grandson if you think it is appropriate for children. I think the video is fairly self explanatory though.Thank you.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

+Eileen Pritchard YES, absolutely, use this with any swimming student. The whole technique is in the book, Conquer Your Fear of Water. You can get it at amazon.com. I'm sorry I'm only now seeing your note!

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Sorry to only be seeing this years later. But for what it's worth, there is a book I wrote that explains everything in this video and all our videos. It's called Conquer Your Fear of Water. You can find it at miracleswimming.org as paperback or ebook. Or in paperback at amazon.com.

[@camilaswift2687]

Swimming is so fun when you know how to.

[@vv.westwealthy8728]

init

[@mrs.l6084]

When I’m floating on my back I’m super relaxed and I just feel on top of the world it’s the best feeling ever I can even float in a tub, lol

[@spencerw2994]

I just want to say a big thank you for this video and ask some questions -- from an instructor perspective. I actually intentionally no longer teach adult lessons (my current pool doesn't offer many to begin with) because I don't have adult-appropriate vocabulary (some of the kid stuff just ends up patronizing) or the understanding of the physics and biology to be able to teach effective lessons. While practice obviously makes perfect, making mistakes around four year olds is always easier for me than around other adults/adults who are older than me. So hearing the way you've described thing and how you walk through the skill here, as well as seeing how you physically supported people (vs. having to support the whole body, which becomes uncomfortable for everyone real quick lol) was very informative for me. I do have some qs about the back float with the feet down -- it sounded like this is the end goal for the feet, not a starting point. Is that correct? If so, why is that the end goal vs. feet higher? (As I'd assume if someone will kick for forward propulsion while on their back.) I can gather the difference in floating position is based on body type or natural balance point/center of gravity, but I can't figure out any of the relevant details to tell if this is/isn't the most appropriate position. I don't know if y'all are able to answer that to a stranger on youtube or if that's giving too much info, but I know understanding it would help me as an instructor. (I actually ended up here because, though I only teach kids, I have an 8yo boy who just keeps struggling to float on his back, even though multiple instructors have tried all of what we've got.) Thank you all for the informative video and channel, and for doing what you do! Being able to swim is so, so important (as I'm sure you know), and there is a dreadful lack of programs for adult beginners, with even fewer that are actually useful and not just "well this is how we teach seven year olds so it probably works the same."

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Hello, Spencer. That's a very good question. I like what you've said in the rest of your comment as well. To answer your question would take more than I can do on KZbin. It's training. If you'd like to email me, please go to miracleswimming dot come and go to Contact Us at the bottom of the page. Swimcerely, Miracle Swimming

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Spencer, The best answer is to spend $12 and read my book. It will answer so many questions. It's Conquer Your Fear of Water...A Revolutionary Way to Learn to Swim without Ever Feeling Afraid. It's at miracleswimming.com. Best of luck.

[@jagbot]

such a beautiful video!

[@collimator1]

This worked for me!! Thank you :)

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

You're welcome. Glad to hear it!

[@robl1799]

I always get water in my nose while dismounting from the back float. I know why. It's because I panic for some reason. Please help me

[@Timrem1]

Rob L same

[@Timrem1]

My swim instructor said that I should have my stomach up and my butt up also maybe u can do that to

[@suemorgan631]

When you unfloat, first take a breath and hold it. This will lift you a bit higher in the water. Then draw your knees tightly to your chest and try to look down at your feet (get your chin to your chest). Your hips and feet will drop and you'll go vertical. Use a nose clip when practicing. Get the mechanics of the unfloat down first. The important things are pulling your knees up tight and looking at your feet. Once you get the hang of the unfloat itself. Then practice the unfloat and hum while lifting your knees and head. Air comes out the nose, so water doesn't go in. Don't try to master both at the same time--it's too much to think about. :) Order Melon's book if you want to learn more!

[@Aviator168]

This is great. I am going to teach my wife this way.

[@sixsigma4760]

I can float in the water but both of my feet tend to go down which makes me paddling my legs to keep them afloat. What can I do to keep them afloat without paddling or fluttering? Please advise.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

I don't think you've watched the video yet. Watch it a couple of times.

[@stylo_sassy_girl]

Waowew I love your technique and trick 😍Please share some more techniques for beginners. I have aquaphobia but I wanna learn slowly but it instructor tells me everything in hurry and want me to jump in 7 feet of water. Right now I am just comfortable in 4 feet of water but having some breathing issues...

[@labaccident2010]

Take your time learning. Don’t let someone push you to do anything you’re not ready to! I taught myself to swim at eighteen, after being terrified of the water due to a teacher just tossing me in the deep end when i was three. Take your time and stay safe!

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Read this book: Conquer Your Fear of Water, A Revolutionary Way to Learn to Swim Without Ever Feeling Afraid

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

As of today there are 287 "thumbs up" reviews and 26 "thumbs down." I can understand thumbs up, but why would someone say thumbs down? What is missing from this video?

[@SanjayAnand1UP]

+Melon Dash (Miracle Swimming) most people are negative by their default perception

[@nhattran1074]

Don't mind those people who thumb down.

[@seikibrian8641]

"What is missing from this video?" I don't think anything is missing. It's perfect for what it is supposed to be. I disagree with Sanjay Anand's belief that MOST people are negative, but for sure SOME people are; just ignore them. I admire anyone who has the skill and patience to work with aquaphobics and other non-swimming adults the way it is shown in this video; it's truly inspiring. Keep up the good fight.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Thank you.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Thank you.

[@mrs.l6084]

I think it’s fun too lol so relaxing

[@davidwang5986]

What do you ware? Wetsuits?

[@sharonsmith480]

hi teacher, i m an aquaphobic since childhood but want to learn swimming. now i m 35 having a back problem and an enlarged nasal bone which constricts a clear and easy breathing. it is possible that i can learn to swim and save myself incase of any untoward incident or natural calamity? i m thinking of getting myself enrolled in a swimming class. what should be my plan of action and what things should i keep in mind? your help will be appreciated.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

+Sharon Smith Hello, Sharon, Yes, it is absolutely possible for you to learn to swim! To make a long story short, IMHO, you should read my book and follow its instructions to a T! That way you are sure to succeed in your class. You may want your instructor to read it, too. The book is Conquer Your Fear of Water and you can get it at miracleswimming.com or amazon.com. Very best wishes.

[@sharonsmith480]

+Melon Dash (Miracle Swimming) ....thanks a ton

[@patrishaspicer6410]

Is there a vid on back float recovery?

[@magsushishi]

Hi, i'm trying to teach my friends how to float on their back. their upper body is floating fine, but their legs sink and they want their legs to float too. any suggestions? thanks in advance!

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Watch the video many times.

[@jogmas12]

LISTEN TO EXO - MONSTER my legs sink too but to prevent this i move them like i am peddling a bike. Works for me and i go in circles as a result but it allows me to float in one area for long periods.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

If you think their legs should be up while floating, you are misinformed. Listen to the video.

[@governorfrank4587]

Hi, I am enjoying your video..The problem i have is I am able to float well at the beach on my back for a longer period than in the Pool..what can i do more to stay longer in the pool..Thanks Frank from Ghana.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Governor Jason Hello, GJ. Yes, you're more buoyant in salt water, as you know. There are 3 things you can do in the pool to stay floating longer. 1. Keep more air in your lungs and breathe comfortably, but more shallowly. 2. Rather than having your arms at your sides, put them at 3:00 and 9:00 or 11:00 and 1:00. That puts more weight at your upper end and lifts your feet. MAKE SURE you move your arms to that position BELOW THE SURFACE, not thru the air. 3. In your normal floating position, move your hands in a sculling motion to get lift. I can't really describe that adequately here, sorry to say. Best wishes.

[@raj-hf4wb]

Very nice tutorial on back floating.....

[@jogmas12]

My 8 year old son has been taking lessons since he was 5. He is in prívate lessons now and does ok when he is in Water where his feet can touch the bottom and he can float on his own in the shallow end. But it seems he is developing a fear of deeper water. For instance he will Jump off the diving board at the deep end and swim to the side by him self as long as there is a "noodle" tied around his waist. Take the noodle off and he wants assistance. What do you think can be done to wean him off the noodle at the deep end?

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

He doesn't know that the water holds him up. If he's skinny, like kids used to be and many still are, it's normal that is feet would touch the floor in shallow water when he floats. He needs to play more to find out how his body and the water work together. Jumping into deep water is too advanced if he's afraid. What happens if he jumps up off the bottom in shallow water, then lifts his feet so he doesn't land on them, but the water catches him, instead? He will find out that the water pushes him back up if he has a good breath. That's one game to play. Another is to float on his front with varying amounts of air to see the effect of having lots of air vs. having little.

[@jogmas12]

Melon Dash i think what i will have him do is sit on the edge of the pool at the 4 feet deep level and just have him fall into the pool from there. I will tell him when he hits the water to not let his feet touch the bottom but rather give the Water a chance hold him up and come up to the surface and once he hits the surface start swimming. Once he has done this at 4 feet and feels comfortable we can try it at deeper water. It will just be a simple exercise to let him know how the Water can hold him up and bouy him to the surface, shallow or deep.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

As long as he can stand up in 4 feet, that could work. He must feel 100% safe all the time, or safe enough to WANT to try it.

[@veda4u1989]

Hello Melon this is a very helpful video, i can float on my stomach, but when i try to float on my stomach my legs start to sink. It would be great if you can suggest me anything. Thank you.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

+vedavyas merla . Please watch the video above again. It answers your question. If you don't get the answer from watching it, watch it again. This is a teacher speaking. ;-)

[@veda4u1989]

OK lol I am definitely scratching my head :) .. but sure will watch again and try.. most important thanks for your reply!!

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

+vedavyas merla LET YOUR FEET SINK!

[@veda4u1989]

Yes i tired that, my hip keeps sinking . I definitely need a spotter my fear is acting. I am trying to find one near Rockville DC area. Your video is the best motivator, thank you very much.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

If you go to the pool that used to be called The Mac which now is the Marie Shriver pool (something like that) near White Flint Station, there is a shallow, warmer pool where you can put your hands on the bottom to learn to float. Do that! Or come to Sarasota to our new Adult Pool that has a 2-foot pool where you can learn. I'm glad you got so much from our video.

[@raheemolaleye7486]

If i could come to a miracle swimming centre, How long could it take me to master the comfort in water and enjoy swimming not just strokes in water

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Raheem Olaleye HI, Raheem. At Miracle Swimming, every person goes at his/her own pace. You have to stay true to yourself all the time and let yourself learn like a little kid does: no hurry. This is the fastest, most efficient way to learn. I can say that the majority of people who are terrified in water when they arrive become free in deep water by the end of our Next Step class. This means they take the Beginning class (5 days/24 hours) and our NS class (5 days/24 hours). Not everyone reaches freedom in the deep in that time, but the majority do. We offer both classes back to back a couple of times a year, such as in July and October and sometimes Feb. and April. People who would say their fear is "off the Richter Scale" take our Ultra Beginning class to start, which is the exact same class as our Beginning class, but it goes more slowly and you get to learn to float in 1-2 feet of water so you can put your hands on the bottom. No one can fail to learn that way.

[@raheemolaleye7486]

Thanks for clarification. I will work towards that

[@DJChubs2021]

What should we learn first back floating or front floating

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

front, imho.

[@shannondent7052]

I need this class

[@jkraft2652]

what kind of swim top are you wearing? thnx...

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

It's a 2mm neoprene vest made by Divers Direct. DiversDirect.com. Search for EVO vest.

[@5405keith]

@@MelonDashMiracleSwimming what is the purpose of using the vest. I am just in my 3rd swim class 46 yrs of age. Any info would be great

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

@@5405keith Hi, Keith. The purpose of the vest is warmth. We're in the water for 2 hours at a time and if the water temp is less than 90 or 92F, we use wetsuit vests or shirts. Otherwise, students get cold. Us, too!

[@sameerahmed9674]

I am trying to follow instructions mentioned in the vdo

[@williamdeleon4736]

Hello , My name is William De Leon and My wife name is Beatriz . We both enjoy watching your swimming videos. Me and my wife are taking swimming lesson but we both had a bad experience in the water as a child and panic in the water when swimming . The instructor is teaching us how to swim but , he do not teach us on how to float , just kicking and kicking and using a foam noodle board on or hands, so we don`t drown. Sometimes He, pretend us to stay floating or swimming and that make us tire. He say keep kicking , keep kicking so you don`t drown . Are they any way to breath or float . or any floating lessons . We really want to learn how to swim.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

WILLIAM DE LEON Hello, William and Beatriz. Thank you for your comment and I'm glad you're learning from our videos. Your instructor is teaching you to STROKE but not to swim. I'm afraid he doesn't know the difference, I'm sorry to say, and many instructors don't. Kicking when you're worried you might drown or you won't be able to get air does not make you safe. Physical skills are secondary to being calm in water and being able to remain in control because you have no fear. Please read my book, Conquer Your Fear of Water. You need that information! I don't know where you are, but I wish you could come to a Miracle Swimming class. Best wishes!!

[@harabas1]

My family is taking a swimming lesson ( beginner) and the back float is included in the program. May I know the importance of back float?

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

The back float is a place to rest when you're tired. Everyone must have a way to rest.

[@gaurav8849]

can you put the whole thing including floatation and backswimming

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Eventually. Get this part first. What you will learn is that once you get this down, swimming on the back comes organically without effort.

[@Alexsh2010]

Love this!

[@denatheexplorer]

I'm starting lessons tomorrow, and I have an extreme fear of letting go when it comes to floating on my back. I have no problem with floating and stroking on my stomach, but my back terrifies me. Any suggestions for relaxing and letting go?

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

This may make no sense to you at all, Dena. This is why our system is diametrically opposed to all the traditional lessons out there. Do NOT do anything you're extremely afraid to do. Just DON'T do it! It's not time. There's a lot you need to learn before you let go. I don't want to sound like a used car salesman. But anyone who is afraid in water really should learn the material in my book before they start traditional lessons. It's absolutely essential for success, for remaining happy in lessons, and for knowing how to take care of yourself in the water. It's Conquer Your Fear of Water A Revolutionary Way to Learn to Swim without Ever Feeling Afraid. You can get it as an ebook at miracleswimming.com or in paperback, either there or at Amazon.

[@denatheexplorer]

thanks for the quick response, and advice. I'll check it out, but I've already paid for the lesson.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Paying for the lesson is not relevant to what you do at the lesson! You are in control of what you do or do not do at the lesson. This is not expected!

[@unburriedtalents599]

I wish I could take this class 🤗

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Wish you could, too. We're working to get this available everywhere.

[@jogmas12]

I know that when one learns to swim they usually never forget how to, at that’s what I been told. But what if, someone just learns how one day but do not do any form of swimming for say, 2 or 3 years, how well do you think they will perform if they get in the pool again?

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

What do you mean by "just learns how"? If you mean you did something with your arms and legs, then you didn't learn how to swim. If you mean you learned how the water works with your body, then it will come back to you quickly when you get into the water again.

[@jogmas12]

Melon Dash the reason I asked my daughter ‘learned how to swim’ over the course of taking several lessons. What I mean by ‘learned to swim’ is she jumped into 12 feet deep pool, ( she is 5’3” tall) came up to the top and swam to the side all by herself. She was able to do this several times over the course of her lessons. However, since we have no access to a “real” swimming pool, it’s been about 3 years since she did that. So I was just wondering.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

@@jogmas12 No, she did not learn to swim, sorry.

[@jogmas12]

Melon Dash so what is ‘knowing how to swim’ by your definition? Thanks

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

@@jogmas12 Knowing how to swim is being able to rest as long as you want in deep water away from any walls or supports, peacefully.

[@kijihigh6826]

I totally wish that I could receive this type of training.. Not available in my town. Most teachers force you to do this on your own without anyone supporting you. They feel that you should not have a "crutch so get out and do it!!!!,😡

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

That's not acceptable, in our way of thinking here at Miracle Swimming.

[@Antiwheezey]

What are te vest they are wearing

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

The water was only 84 degrees so we wore them for warmth. Being in the water for 2 hours at 84 degrees when you're moving slowly, you can get way too cold. The vests are made of neoprene, 2 mm. Thanks for asking.

[@klarenzaraneta2501]

I wish you were my swimming instructor 😔

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Thank you. Come and be in one of my classes.

[@abuisa88]

That was really cool 🤚

[@haripriyar6797]

hi... any classes available in minnesota..

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

There are no instructors in MN or classes planned for now, though we have taught at Fairmont Springs before. I would go to Seattle or Sarasota (FL) if you want to plan on a class.

[@kirstysewell8422]

wish someone would do this in England

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

We're bringing Miracle Swimming to Dublin April 15-26, 2019. www.miracleswimming.org/all-courses/beginner-course/beginning-course-ireland-5-day.html

[@mandeepsinghgulati505]

Thank you so much !!!

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

You're welcome! Thank you.

[@ClaireJ4]

I am 5 feet 5 inches tall. I am comfortable in 5 feet deep water. I have learnt how to float and paddle with my arms straight out, with my face inside the water. For some reason though my feet are paddling, my body drifts with the water and sometimes I just can't move ahead in the water despite the feet movement.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Hello, Claire. I understand. In the parlance of Miracle Swimming, you are not fully present yet. You're thinking, wondering why you're not going anywhere, not noticing exactly what you're doing, working hard, perhaps. Since I can't give you swimming lessons here, I'll give you one helpful instruction: keep doing what you're doing, with no attachment to going anywhere, and find out what is going on. What are your legs actually doing? How does your body feel? Do you feel comfortable? (I don't think so.) Do this until you stop working so hard and can just be there, playing with the kick. It may take a couple of days of coming back to it. It's worth doing.

[@ClaireJ4]

@@MelonDashMiracleSwimming Hey Melon. Thank you so much for responding. Today was my Day 6 swimming. I have been floating and paddling since Day2 and my instructor was quite impressed with me pushing off against the wall and gliding through water before I start kicking my feet. On Day 3 4 and 5 I was kicking and getting across the small width of the pool. Today suddenly, the ripples in the water were taking me away with them, me manoeuvring my arms was doing nothing. So several times I just had to stand straight in the 5 feet pool. I love gliding after pushing off against the wall. So I think I am comfortable in the water. Does expecting my kicks to take me somewhere mean I am tensed and thinking too much? Nevertheless I kept going back at it. Saw your videos after coming back. I will take a go at it again tomorrow. Maybe Day 7 will be like Day 3 4 and 5. :)

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

@@ClaireJ4 Just keep gliding after pushing off the wall. 100 times. Don't do anything else. There is so much more to learn about that than you realize. From your description you are not comfortable. If you were, you wouldn't "think so." Your kick should take you somewhere. Feel how tense you are. Otherwise, you could not kick your feet and go nowhere. FEEL everything. My book is at Amazon and at our website, miracleswimming dot org.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

I'm not trying to sell it but to give you the rest of what you need. I can't do it here.

[@ClaireJ4]

@@MelonDashMiracleSwimming Thank you Melon. You were incredibly helpful. Thank you for your responses. :)

[@edelalbazy]

I am so scared of water and I just am not able to overcome that. I would really appreciate a kind advice on this.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Hello, Edel. I can't teach you to overcome your fear here but you can learn a lot by reading the comments below and watching the videos. We have a book, DVD, and classes in the U.S. all year long. Hope you can take advantage of the many things that have been made for you here and at miracleswimming.org.

[@nalingu]

Wonderful

[@sallywong8426]

Am i correct to say that both arms should be in the water so we can float better?

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Yes. Why would you have one or two arms out of the water?

[@sallywong8426]

@@MelonDashMiracleSwimming thank you

[@swaminityayogananda158]

There are people who can lie flat on their back for hours in deep fresh water pool without any support and without moving their body parts.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

True, Swami Nitya! SRFer!

[@nicarb3324]

Thnks a lot u help me s lot ..

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

You're very welcome, Nica. That's why we're here. ;-)

[@milzijex7340]

1:44 You did not complete your comment to the pupil, something about letting out air. Seemed important, what was it?

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Milzi Jex I was about to say, As you let out your air, do you notice that you lose a bit of altitude?

[@jhyuuko]

@@MelonDashMiracleSwimming i hope you can still reply, but do we need to keep air as we back float to be able to float? My problem is i panic once i need to breathe out. Or we can still float even we exhaled the air from our lungs?

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

@@jhyuuko If your feet are on the bottom of the pool when you back float while holding your breath, and you exhale, you will find yourself "losing altitude." You may or may not sink below the surface, depending on your buoyancy and how much air you let out. In other words, if your feet are on the floor, it means you're somewhat lean and your held breath is adding to your buoyancy. If your feet are not on the floor while you back float with breath held, then your body has more buoyancy and letting out some of your air in order to have space in your lungs to inhale will probably not cause your face to go below the surface. You should practice this with a nose clip on so you won't get water in your nose if you go under. Also, don't do anything that will make you panic. No exceptions. The only way to find out is to try it very slowly and notice what happens. Prevent yourself from going under if you have to, so you can prevent panic. If you weren't so terrified, it would occur to you that if you push down on the water with your hands, you will keep your face above the surface even if you let out air. Learning skills on top of terror is self-torture. It would help you to read my book. I'm not trying to sell it, mind you: I'm trying to help you. Conquer Your Fear of Water is at miracleswimming.org.

[@jhyuuko]

@@MelonDashMiracleSwimming Thank you very much for your detailed explanation. 😊

[@mschent]

Why should the feet stay down? I'm confused. I see people floating with their legs up higher.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

It's not that they SHOULD stay down. It's that they DO stay down ...because the legs are not buoyant on those people. Some people float with feet up; others with feet down. They're all good floats.

[@mschent]

Ahh. Okay. Thank you. I'm 68 and trying to learn to swim. Everyone says "just float." I haven't been able to do that but I'm going to try this technique.

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

If you need more info, read our book. I'm not trying to sell our book. It will help you.

[@mschent]

this one? Conquer Your Fear of Water: An Innovative Self-Discovery Course in Swimming

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Yes, that one. It will answer your question and many more. Thanks.

[@loslogos9091]

Well for me it's a different case. Today I realised that I can sink while trying to float on my back😂😂

[@chemistryhacks5289]

You have to be calm in water and move your feet slightly if they start to sink

[@rosecalamanan4476]

Farhan Azmain your right my tutor say to me that

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Every person who sinks needs to know they sink and be 100% comfortable with it. Then, they can learn how not to sink. But you can't learn how not to sink if you're resisting sinking.

[@samehaldessouki899]

THANKS ALOT

[@neelimakalapurakkal2111]

I can float but somehow I am not moving from the spot despite moving my legs.. I feel very sad though I am determined that I will keep trying till I can do backstroke nicely..

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

Are you tense while you float? Are you thinking ahead? Or are you feeling the water hold you up and feeling safe. If you don't feel 100% safe, do not ask yourself to propel yourself. Feeling safe has to come first.

[@neelimakalapurakkal2111]

thank you for replying.. two days back I started moving while floating on my back.. hope to slowly start using hands :)

[@febehttp3]

I'm stressed, my teacher wants me to do backstroke in the deep end and I'm so BAD AT IT HELP

[@MelonDashMiracleSwimming]

I wish I'd seen this sooner. Read this book: Conquer Your Fear of Water. Then show it to your teacher.