ADVANCED AQUATIC BREATH CONTROL
Challenge high-level respiratory control and efficiency in strong youth swimmers with disabilities during vigorous water exercise.
How to Perform
- Have the child perform fast paced water running or strong flutter kicking in chest-deep water for 20–30 seconds at a demanding but controlled effort.
- During each work bout, cue a consistent pattern such as two to three steps or kicks per breath with full exhalation into the water.
- Follow each high-effort breathing bout with 30–60 seconds of slow walking and relaxed, deep breathing above the water.
- Repeat several cycles, maintaining precise breathing rhythm and avoiding any breath-holding beyond normal stroke timing.
- Finish with a longer cool-down of easy movement and relaxed diaphragmatic breathing to return to baseline.
Key Execution Cues
Remember: Keep breathing steady and rhythmic, exhale fully but
comfortably under the water, and avoid gasping or holding the breath.
Safety & Precautions
Important: Require medical clearance in significant cardiac or
pulmonary disease; strictly avoid prolonged or competitive breath-holding.
Additional Safety Notes: Monitor closely for dizziness, chest discomfort, or unusual shortness of breath; stop immediately if any concerning signs occur.
Exercise Modifications
Make it Harder (Progressions)
Increase the number of work–recovery cycles or modestly extend work duration while maintaining safe breathing control.
Make it Easier (Regressions)
Reduce intensity of movement, shorten work intervals, or increase recovery duration between sets.