MOE Swimsafer Programs Lessons #2
Weather Outlook: Cloudy and Rainy
Water Temperature: 22°C
Date: 13 Jan 2025
Time: 1:30 PM
The rain had been relentless since Friday, 10 Jan 2025. Each day brought heavy downpours, leaving the skies overcast and the air cool. The weather forecast warned of flash floods across Singapore for the next several days, which dampened our hopes for the upcoming event. Despite these challenges, my friends and I decided not to let the dreary conditions hold us back. We displayed grit and resilience, showing up for our swimming lesson in a cold, wet environment that tested our determination.
Upon arriving at the pool, the first thing we noticed was the cold. The water sat still under the gray skies, and the air temperature felt as though it could chill you to the bone. We stood at the edge of the 1-meter-deep pool, exchanging hesitant glances. The coach, always a source of encouragement, greeted us with a warm smile and assured us that the session would be worthwhile.
Before stepping into the pool, we started with a series of warm-up exercises on land. The coach led us through dynamic stretches, including arm circles, leg swings, and jogging in place. He explained that warming up our muscles would not only prepare our bodies for the cold water but also help prevent injuries. While I wasn’t entirely convinced that this would make entering the chilly pool any easier, I followed along. My friends and I moved through the exercises, trying to generate as much heat as possible to combat the cold.
The coach also introduced a unique activity he called “sketching.” It involved mimicking swimming strokes while standing on land. We practiced freestyle and backstroke movements, focusing on proper arm rotation and breathing techniques. Though we weren’t in the water yet, the exercise helped us visualize the motions we would soon perform. It also served as a mental warm-up, preparing us for the challenges ahead.
When it was finally time to enter the pool, hesitation hit us again. The sun had yet to break through the thick clouds, and the water temperature was a brisk 22°C. I could feel the chill in the air, and the thought of stepping into the cold water sent a shiver down my spine. But with the coach urging us on and my friends nervously laughing beside me, I took a deep breath and stepped into the pool.
The initial shock was overwhelming. The cold seemed to pierce straight through my skin, freezing me in place for a moment. My body reacted instinctively, tensing up as if to shield itself from the chill. But as I took a few more steps, the sensation began to dull. I walked around the pool, splashing water over my arms and shoulders to acclimate further. To my surprise, it wasn’t as bad as I had imagined.
The coach started the lesson with basic skills: entering and exiting the pool safely, floating, and standing with support. He emphasized the importance of mastering these foundational skills, as they form the building blocks for more advanced swimming techniques. I practiced entering the pool slowly, using the steps and gripping the handrails. Exiting the pool was equally methodical, focusing on balance and control. These simple exercises helped build my confidence in handling the water.
Next, we moved on to floating. The coach explained that floating is about trusting the water to support your body. He demonstrated how to lie back, keep your body relaxed, and spread your arms and legs like a starfish. My first attempts were clumsy—I kept tensing up, which caused me to sink. The coach patiently guided me, reminding me to relax and breathe evenly. Slowly but surely, I began to float. Feeling the water gently cradle me was both calming and empowering.
The lesson then progressed to kicking drills. Holding onto the edge of the pool, we practiced flutter kicks. The coach reminded us to keep our legs straight and kick from the hips, not the knees. My initial attempts were awkward, with splashes flying everywhere but little movement. However, with practice and the coach’s feedback, my kicks became smoother and more effective. Seeing the water ripple behind me as I kicked gave me a sense of accomplishment.
One of the most challenging parts of the lesson was retrieving objects from the bottom of the pool. The coach threw a small object into the water and asked us to pick it up. At first, I hesitated. The thought of holding my breath and going underwater made me nervous. The coach noticed my hesitation and took the time to teach me a breathing technique. He explained how to take a deep breath before submerging, exhale slowly while underwater, and remain calm throughout the process.
Armed with this new knowledge, I gave it another try. The first few attempts were unsuccessful—I panicked and came up for air too quickly. But with persistence and encouragement from the coach, I finally managed to retrieve the object. The sense of pride I felt in that moment was indescribable. What had seemed impossible at first became an achievement through patience and effort.
After mastering the basics, the coach introduced a fun group activity to wrap up the lesson. He scattered floating rings across the pool and challenged us to collect them. This game allowed us to practice everything we had learned—floating, kicking, and moving confidently in the water. My friends and I worked together, cheering each other on and laughing as we splashed around. The cold and rain faded into the background as the pool came alive with our energy and enthusiasm.
By the end of the session, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment. What began as reluctance and fear had transformed into confidence and joy. The coach’s guidance and my own determination had allowed me to overcome the challenges of the day.
As we climbed out of the pool, shivering but smiling, the coach gathered us for a final word of encouragement. “Every small step you take in the water builds your strength and courage,” he said. “Swimming isn’t just about the strokes and techniques. It’s about connecting with the water and discovering what you’re capable of.”
His words stayed with me as I dried off and prepared to leave. The rain continued to fall, and the gray skies showed no sign of clearing. But none of that mattered anymore. I had faced my fears, pushed through the discomfort, and emerged stronger for it.
Walking away from the pool, I felt a newfound respect for the power of resilience. Even in the face of unfavorable conditions, I had learned to adapt and persevere. The experience reminded me that challenges are opportunities in disguise, and the effort to overcome them often leads to growth and self-discovery.
My friends and I left with big smiles, already looking forward to our next lesson. Despite the cold, the rain, and the uncertainty, we had found joy and confidence in the water. It was a lesson not just in swimming, but in life itself—a reminder that courage and determination can turn any challenge into a triumph.
At the end of the day, John has learn to be resilience and preserverance which are part of the core values of character building. Well done John!!
