Intensive Swimming Training for Advanced Learners
In the picturesque coastal town of Binz, located on the Baltic Sea, a unique state-supported swimming program is making waves. The program, named "MV can swim," is aimed at primary school students, with a focus on turning non-swimmers into safe swimmers.
The courses, which take place at Prora, near lifeguard tower 11, are designed to equip children with the skills necessary to navigate the challenges of open water swimming. Unlike pool swimming, open water conditions involve dealing with currents, waves, and varying water temperatures, which require a different set of skills.
Children participating in the program must demonstrate strong swimming proficiency, often involving longer distances and varying conditions compared to pool swimming. For example, to earn the seahorse badge, children must swim 25 meters in the Baltic Sea. For the bronze badge, they must swim 200 meters and perform diving and jumping tasks.
The courses are structured to ensure a smooth learning process. Initial training involves basic swimming lessons in a pool to develop fundamental skills. Once children have mastered pool swimming, they can transition to open water under the guidance of experienced instructors. Hands-on experience in open water conditions is essential for developing the necessary skills and confidence.
Two swimming instructors are usually in the water for beginner courses, ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment. As children progress, one instructor plus a helper is typically present. The courses are free for those eligible, while a fee of 150 euros per week applies for others.
The goal of the state program is not just to teach swimming skills but also to instill a sense of safety and awareness. Children learn about navigating currents, safe entry and exit techniques, rescue techniques, and the importance of weather conditions and water hazards.
Claudia Groß, a volunteer for the DLRG, is a testament to the program's success. She learned to swim and earned her swimming badges in the Baltic Sea. Claudia is now giving back to the community by helping to teach the next generation of swimmers.
The demand for volunteers in the DLRG is high, making it an excellent opportunity for those interested in giving back to their community. Registrations for the swimming courses can be made via the DLRG Binz's website.
Since the inception of the program, approximately 500 children have already participated, with many more expected to join in the future. The MV can swim program is not just a swimming course; it's a stepping stone towards a lifetime of water safety and enjoyment.
[1] Open Water Swimming: A Comprehensive Guide. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.openwaterswimming.org/guide/ [2] Pool Safety vs. Open Water Safety: What's the Difference? (2020). Retrieved from https://www.aquatictraining.com/blog/pool-safety-vs-open-water-safety-whats-the-difference/ [3] Open Water Swimming Skills: What You Need to Know. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.triathleteslife.com/open-water-swimming-skills-what-you-need-to-know/ [4] The Differences Between Pool and Open Water Swimming. (2020). Retrieved from https://www.swimmingworldmagazine.com/news/the-differences-between-pool-and-open-water-swimming/
In the heart of Binz, home-and-garden to a thriving outdoor-living culture, the state-supported swimming program, "MV can swim," offers courses at Prora, equipping children with the necessary skills for open water swimming. Beyond learning swimming proficiency, the program also fosters an understanding of safety and awareness, teaching children about navigating currents, water hazards, and rescue techniques.
