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Improving Breaststroke During Off Season
Improving Breaststroke During Off Season
If you’re already missing being outside and the rush of drills, it may be time to start doing off-season lifeguard training! Just because you’re not working doesn’t mean you can’t improve your skills. If you want to work on drills and skill development, the breaststroke swimming technique is something you may not often think about. Though it's a widely used athletic and leisure swimming stroke, lifeguards don’t use it as much because of its slow speed. However, the breaststroke is essential for improving your swimming abilities and staying in shape during the off-season. If you're looking to improve your breaststroke in the off-season, Perform the drills outlined here to get ready for your best season yet.
What Is the Breaststroke Swimming Technique?
For many years, the breaststroke has been one of the most popular and widely used swimming strokes. It's excellent for beginners and experienced swimmers alike because it allows you to breathe freely and keep your eyes open without needing goggles. So, how do you typically execute a breaststroke?
- Start by floating in the water with your legs together and your arms straight out in line with your head. Your head should be looking straight down.
- To propel forward, move your arms out to the sides through the water, staying fully extended the whole time, until your elbows are in line with your shoulders. Then, swiftly move your hands toward each other until your palms touch. Continue moving forward until you have fully extended your arms to the front again.
- While your arms are moving backward, your body should naturally transition from a 90-degree angle to a 45-degree angle in the water. Your shoulders and torso will be mostly out of the water, with your hips and legs still submerged. When your palms meet and your arms extend forward, the rest of your body should follow until it again makes a straight line from toe to fingertip on top of the water.
- While moving your arms backward, your legs should generally stay in the same position. Once your elbows are almost in line with your shoulders, bend your knees and move your feet closer to your butt. When your arms are moving forward, move your knees apart while separating your legs outward and backward, resulting in a propelling kick. Then, move your legs inward until they are together and extended again in the beginning position.
Tips and Drills to Improve Breaststroke
Once you have perfected the breaststroke swimming technique basics, you should learn how to improve your breaststroke in the off-season. Doing so is especially critical for lifeguards who only work in warmer weather. Staying in shape and practicing in the off-season is essential to keep your skills honed and ensure you can still perform safety and rescue skills. The advantage of practicing your breaststroke is that it will help keep you in shape and improve your muscle function for swimming without wearing you out. Go to your local YMCA or pool at least once a week and work on these drills to hone your breaststroke technique.
- Timing: Timing is a critical skill to practice for improving your breaststroke. Either your arms or your legs should be propelling during this stroke. However, they shouldn’t be doing so at the same time. Simultaneously working both will result in unnecessary fatigue. Practice your breaststroke while counting to make sure you are moving your legs while resting your arms and vice versa.
- Don’t look down: An easy tip to improve breaststroke performance is to properly focus your eyes. It’s a common misconception that you should be looking straight down toward the bottom of the pool during the breaststroke. Instead, to improve focus and performance, look three to six feet ahead.
- Foot position: Do you point or flex your feet during the breaststroke swimming technique? Trick question — the answer is both. Improve your breaststroke in the off-season by paying attention to your feet. When your legs are propelling backward, flex your feet for maximum pull. However, once your legs come back together in the flat position, point your toes to glide smoothly and fluidly through the water.
- Breathing: As with any stroke, improving breaststroke in off-seasons also depends on breathing techniques. Perform a breathing exercise to improve your breaststroke in the water. Submerge your face as you would during the stroke and hold your breath for one or two seconds longer than usual. Then, bring your face out of the water and take a deep breath before submerging again. Repeat this breaststroke drill at least 10 times per swimming session. It will help you with this stroke while improving your overall breathing skills for swimming.
- Kicking: To develop a more powerful breaststroke kick, you can perform kick drills. Hold on to the edge of the pool with your hands. With your legs, kick as if you were swimming through the water doing the breaststroke. Focus on what your legs are doing — your knees should be hip-width apart and slightly below your hip line when kicking. Repeat this drill each time you go to the pool to strengthen your legs and make your kicking more fluid.
As with any other stroke, your ability to maintain buoyancy, arm strength and leg strength is critical to improving breaststroke in off-season training. Doing weight-retrieving drills, strength training and working on other strokes are also crucial to developing your backstroke and overall lifeguarding skills.
Get the Right Swim Gear for Training
Need some training gear for the off-season? Get in shape with top-quality gear and apparel from The Lifeguard Store. From resistance gear to diving rings and bricks to speed apparel that will help you glide through the water, Kiefer has everything you need to improve your breaststroke during off-season training and prepare for the upcoming season. Get in your drills to improve breaststroke technique and your other skills during the off-season and depend on Kiefer to supply anything you need.
The Importance of Parkas and Sweatshirts for Winter Lifeguarding
The rapid rate at which water reduces body heat is a well-known incident among winter lifeguards. This profession presents challenges throughout the year, but these are particularly severe during the winter months when lower temperatures and strong winds pose additional risks at public beaches. To minimize these challenges, it is imperative for lifeguards to be equipped with suitable winter attire, including parkas and sweatshirts.
Necessity of Lifeguard-Specific Parkas and Sweatshirts
For lifeguards operating in winter conditions, maintaining warmth is crucial to prevent health concerns such as hypothermia, thereby enabling them to concentrate effectively on their responsibilities. It is essential for all lifeguards, waterparks, and public swimming facilities to provide their personnel with appropriate sweatshirts and parkas designed to withstand the winter climate.
At The Lifeguard Store, you can select parkas or waterproof jackets that prevent dampness in rainy conditions. Choose a light, insulated parka that offers both dryness and warmth without hindering mobility. Lifeguard sweatshirts and sweatpants are beneficial for retaining heat during early morning shifts and throughout the winter season.
Strategies for Managing Cold Weather
Training, no matter how experienced you are, can be crucial in a time of an emergency. Lifeguards must be aware of methods to conserve energy and survive in cold waters. Training in such environments should never be done alone; experienced lifeguards and swimmers require proper guidance and supervision during such training.
When entering cold water, aim to keep the upper body, head, and hair as dry as possible. Upon exiting the water, promptly dry off using an absorbent swim towel and change into dry clothing.
Equipping oneself with high-quality winter lifeguard attire is crucial. Adhering to these guidelines will ensure the safety and well-being of lifeguards. Visit The Lifeguard Store to learn more or to equip your team with the most essential gear today!
Lifesaving Tools
Drowning remains a significant global issue, affecting children and young adults. The nature of drowning demands immediate involvement, as a timely rescue can reduce the risk of severe complications. The deployment of specialized rescue equipment is vital in promoting a secure swimming atmosphere.
Rapid and safe response in water rescue is critical, needing the use of appropriate equipment such as fins, rescue tubes, and rescue boards. These tools not only minimize risks but also enhance the efficacy of rescue operations. Research revealed that lifeguards utilizing rescue boards achieved significantly faster rescue times compared to those without flotation devices.
Furthermore, the availability and proper use of first-aid equipment are equally crucial. Standard kits should encompass items like absorbent compresses, various sized bandages, cloth tape, cold compresses, scissors, and more! Other vital resources include insulated blankets, ring buoys, and defibrillators, which should be readily accessible and regularly maintained. Continuous training for lifeguards in the use and maintenance of these rescue and first-aid tools is essential.
The Lifeguard Store offers an extensive selection of high-quality lifeguard equipment, including spine boards, megaphones, and universal head immobilizers, ensuring that lifeguards are well-prepared for challenges. In such a high-stakes and demanding profession, it is crucial to leverage scientific insights and equip oneself with the necessary lifeguard tools to ensure the highest level of preparedness and effectiveness in life-saving situations. Visit The Lifeguard Store to stock your facility with necessary lifesaving tools, today!
Establishing a Comprehensive Lifeguard Program
The creation of a comprehensive and efficient lifeguard apparel and lifeguard programs is essential for ensuring the safety and success of any aquatic facility and team members. This involves a blend of high-quality training, effective lifeguard equipment, and appropriate swimwear. This guide will provide insights into establishing a program that combines expertise and the highest quality products.
Core Elements of a Lifeguard Program
Developing a successful lifeguard program begins with an understanding of its foundational elements:
- Community Needs: Assess the characteristics of local aquatic facilities, demographic details, and prevalent water-related risks.
- Objectives: Define clear objectives, which may include reducing drowning incidents, offering employment opportunities, or cultivating future lifeguard talent.
Choosing the Right Lifeguard Gear
The effectiveness of lifeguards is greatly influenced by the quality and suitability of their equipment.
- Enhancement of Swimming Proficiency: Select lifeguard swimwear designed for maximum agility and speed, essential for strengthening swimming capabilities.
- Emergency Preparedness: Equip lifeguards with essential gear, including rescue devices and comprehensive first aid kits, to ensure prompt and effective emergency responses.
Training and Certification
Beyond the provision of high-caliber equipment, the crux of a lifeguard program lies in its training regimen:
- Comprehensive Training Modules: Incorporate training programs such as the American Red Cross curriculum, which encompasses First Aid, CPR/AED training, and critical rescue techniques.
- Physical Conditioning: Emphasize regular physical training, including both swimming and strength-building exercises to ensure the lifeguards are able to assist anyone.
- Emphasis on Communication Skills and Positive Attitude: Cultivate a team of lifeguards who are not only technically proficient but also proficient in communication and maintain a constructive mindset to ensure communication among employees is clear and effective.
Building a lifeguard program is more than having strong swimmers on your team, it’s a combination of training, having the essential lifeguard apparel and gear needed, and having clear communication to ensure everyone is on the same page when an emergency emerges. When all these elements come together seamlessly, not only do you ensure safety, but you also solidify your position as an expert in the realm of aquatic safety. Shop with The Lifeguard Store today to learn about how to establish a lifeguard program and ensure you are equipped with the most valuable equipment!
What are the basic items you need to build a lifeguard program?
Building a lifeguard program is not just about recruiting the right people; it's about ensuring they have the best and most reliable lifeguard equipment and training to effectively do their job. With the countless amount of lifesaving gear available, it can be daunting for some to figure out what the essentials actually are. Thankfully, The Lifeguard Store, an expert in lifeguard apparel, lifeguard gear, lifesaving equipment, and lifeguard tips is here to guide you through what every facility and lifeguard program should have on hand. Let's dive in!
Lifeguard Swimwear and Apparel
Before delving into the equipment, it's crucial to note that lifeguard swimwear is a foundation. No lifeguard program can kick off without the correct apparel. The Lifeguard Store provides facilities and personnel with all swimwear and apparel necessary to perform:
- One Piece Swimwear
- Guard Shorts
- Rashguards
- Outerwear
- Accessories
- Sweatpants
- And more!
Essential Lifeguard Equipment
Now that your facility and program have the correct lifeguard apparel, let's explore the essential lifeguard equipment that any facility needs to have on hand in case of an emergency:
- Rescue Tubes and Buoys
- Whistles
- First Aid Kit
- Rescue Ropes and Fins
- Emergency Oxygen and Defibrillators
Additional Lifeguard Gear
To further refine and professionalize your lifeguard program, The Lifeguard Store considers these additional pieces of lifeguard gear and equipment essential to be a full functioning program:
- Hip Packs and Professional Trauma Bags
- Emergency Blankets
- Goggles and Ear Plugs
- Face Masks
- Gloves
- Training Manikins
When it comes to lifeguard apparel, gear, and equipment, having the most up to date, high quality items are essential to any lifeguard program or facility. Shop with The Lifeguard Store today for all your needs, and ensure that you're building a lifeguard program geared for success!
Maintain Your Lifeguard Gear
As a lifeguard, your role is pivotal in ensuring the safety and well-being of swimmers and even the people who are just relaxing on the beach or side of the pool. Ensuring that your gear is in pristine condition is crucial, not just for its longevity but also for its efficacy during emergencies. With frequent usage, harsh environmental conditions, and the importance to share equipment across shifts, maintaining and cleaning your lifeguard gear becomes paramount. The Lifeguard Store, your trusted expert in all equipment related to lifeguard uniforms and gear, provides a comprehensive guide to help you achieve the longevity of your lifeguard gear.
Swimsuits and Board Shorts
While lifeguard swimsuits and lifeguard board shorts are often subjected to challenging and unpredictable conditions such as chlorinated water, salt from the sea, and the blazing sun, it’s beneficial to know how to take care of these items to ensure not only the longevity of these clothing items, but to ensure they allow you to stay alert, efficient, and focused during your shift. A few simple ways to take care of your lifeguard swimsuits are to:
- Rinse immediately after use to reduce chlorine or salt damage.
- Use mild detergents and cold water for washing.
- Always air dry these items and avoid direct sunlight to retain the vibrant color and fabric integrity.
Essential Lifeguard Gear & Equipment: Rescue Tubes and Backboards
There are many essential lifeguard equipment items that are necessary for facilities to have in case of an emergency in the water. These items include rescue tubes, backboards, buoys, and more! These essential lifesaving items are fundamental to a lifeguard's role and therefore require meticulous care to ensure these pieces of lifeguard equipment can withstand elements, time, and different situation. A few ways to take care of these items are to:
- Clean with mild soap and water regularly.
- Always check for visible damages, such as cracks or punctures.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight to prolong its life.
- Ensure everything is put away when not in use so nobody steps on anything with the potential of breaking the item.
First-Aid Kits and AED Units
Another essential tool for any lifeguard or facility to have is a first-aid kit and AED unit. These pieces of lifesaving gear and equipment should always be stocked, up to date, and ready to use at any moment. When working at a pool facility or a beach, emergencies can happen out of the blue and ensuring all lifesaving equipment is up to date and standards can be dramatically crucial, even if it is just having a Band-Aid on hand. See below for a few ways to ensure your first aid kit and AED unit remain ready:
- Regularly replace expired or depleted items.
- Ensure the kit is free from dust or dirt.
- Keep it in a cool, dry location to ensure the longevity of the items inside.
- Have an expert complete regular checks on the AED unit to ensure nothing has expired or stopped working.
- Keep the items in an easily accessible place where they won’t be damaged but anyone can find them in a time of emergency.
Shared Equipment: Bags, Lanyards, Manikins, and More
Often, lifeguard gear like bags and lanyards may be shared between shifts. This makes their cleanliness vital for personal hygiene and essential to stay prepared. Shared equipment may be the most important items to keep clean so anyone can grab it an head to shift in a timely manner. See below for how to keep shared lifeguard equipment clean and ready for use:
- Disinfect and clean lanyards after your shift.
- Empty and restock any shared lifeguard gear and bags that may be essential to keep on hand during a shift.
- Wipe off and dry any water that may have gotten on or in your bag during your shift.
- Store items like binoculars in protective cases to keep them free from dust and moisture.
- Clean and disinfect any training manikins after use.
- Store the training manikins in a safe place where they wont be stepped on or damaged when not being used.
Being equipped with lifeguard gear and equipment that's well-maintained ensures lifeguards are always ready for any challenge that comes their way. As professionals who are often called into action at a moment's notice, lifeguards cannot afford to have their lifeguard equipment fail them. Regular maintenance not only ensures longevity but guarantees that the gear performs optimally when it matters most. Trust The Lifeguard Store to be your partner in all equipment a lifeguard or facility may need, ensuring you’re always prepared and equipped with the best lifeguard gear. Shop with us today to stay prepared and alert on your next lifeguard shift!
Lifeguard Gear: What Is the Appropriate Staffing Ratio of Lifeguards to Pool Attendants?
For many pool operators and managers, determining the optimal ratio of lifeguards to pool attendants is a challenging yet crucial question. It’s a delicate balance that impacts not only the efficiency of pool operations but, more importantly, the safety of all pool patrons. With the influx of diverse pools, from recreation centers to hotel resorts, this concern is ever pressing. As a leading provider of lifeguard uniforms and gear, The Lifeguard Store is committed to ensuring that every lifeguard staff is equipped not only with the best lifeguard gear, but also with the knowledge to optimize their service.
It’s essential to understand that the recommended staffing ratio of lifeguards to pool attendants varies depending on several factors. These can include the size and type of the pool, the number of swimmers, and the level of supervision required. However, general industry guidelines suggest a ratio of one lifeguard for every 25 swimmers in a large pool or one lifeguard for every 15 swimmers in a small pool. As for pool attendants, the recommended ratio stands at one pool attendant for every 50 swimmers.
Why is getting this ratio correct so important? Proper staffing ensures that swimmers are adequately supervised, minimizing risks and enhancing their overall experience. In contrast, a lifeguard’s vigilance, backed by top-quality lifeguard gear, can make all the difference in preventing mishaps. Additionally, pool attendants play a vital role in maintaining the pool environment, ensuring patrons enjoy their time without any hitches.
Certain jurisdictions might have specific regulations regarding these ratios. Thus, always consult local authorities to remain compliant with all applicable laws and regulations. Furthermore, it’s advised to have a staffing plan that adjusts for different operating conditions. Ensuring all lifeguard staff are properly trained, have up-to-date certifications, and are equipped with the best lifeguard equipment is pivotal.
While guidelines and research offer a direction, the responsibility remains on pool operators to understand their unique requirements. A lifeguard’s efficiency isn’t solely reliant on numbers but also on their training, the quality of their lifeguard gear, and their environmental conditions. As you consider staffing ratios, remember that the primary goal is ensuring the safety and enjoyment of every pool patron. Trust in The Lifeguard Store to provide the top-notch lifeguard equipment your team needs so they’re always prepared for the task at hand. Learn more with The Lifeguard Store, today!
How to Build a Lifeguard Uniform
Every lifeguard, whether experienced or just starting out, recognizes the significance of a well-constructed uniforms for lifeguard. It’s not just about looking professional; the right uniform ensures functionality, visibility, and comfort throughout a lifeguard’s shift. However, building the perfect custom lifeguard uniform involves a strategic combination of essential pieces of lifeguard gear.
Follow these tips to create the ideal lifeguard uniform, ensuring that you’re always ready to respond to any situation:
- Start With a Solid Base: The Lifeguard Swimsuit
Your swimsuit serves as the base of your lifeguard uniform. It should be comfortable, durable, and suitable for prolonged use in chlorinated or saltwater environments. Remember, as lifeguards are often in motion, swimsuits must provide the necessary mobility without any hindrances. While there are many styles available, it’s essential to choose one that aligns with the demands of your specific environment.
- Prioritize Visibility With a Lifeguard Shirt or Tank Top
Visibility is vital when it comes to lifeguarding. Beachgoers and pool attendees should be able to spot you instantly, even from a distance. Shop for a suit with bright colors, commonly red or yellow, with the word “LIFEGUARD” clearly printed. The type of shirt or tank top you choose will depend on your personal comfort and the requirements of your facility.
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Look for a Durable and Functional Lifeguard Uniform and Gear
No lifeguard ensemble is complete without the right lifeguard gear. From whistles to rescue tubes, ensure you have gear that is easily accessible and durable and suits your custom lifeguard uniform. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the gear, knowing exactly where each item is located so that if the need arises, you can access them promptly.
- Appropriate Footwear
Depending on where you’re stationed, you’ll need footwear that provides grip, comfort, and quick-drying capabilities. Sandals or slip-resistant shoes that drain water are popular choices. Remember, quick response times are vital in lifeguarding, so footwear that doesn’t hinder mobility is crucial.
- Find Versatile Outerwear
No matter the season, a lightweight, breathable jacket or windbreaker can be valuable for unexpected weather changes or cooler mornings and evenings.
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Enhance the Lifeguard Uniform With Accessories
Caps or visors can provide necessary shade during sunny days, while sunglasses with UV protection will shield your eyes and enhance visibility. Again, the key is ensuring these accessories do not interfere with your primary responsibilities.
Building a custom lifeguard uniform is about blending function with visibility. Each piece of lifeguard gear should be chosen with care, always considering the demands of the role. A uniform speaks volumes, not only about what the lifeguard is wearing, but also about the standards and professionalism of the facility they represent. By following the above guidelines, you’re not only investing in your appearance, but also in the safety and confidence of those you are tasked to protect. Remember, when you wear your lifeguard uniform, you embody the trust and responsibility placed upon you. Choose wisely.
Choosing the Right Swimwear for Lifeguard Duty
In the world of water safety, the right swimwear isn’t just a fashion statement; it’s a vital tool for ensuring the utmost efficiency, comfort, and visibility. When it comes to lifeguard duties, understanding the nuances of choosing appropriate swimwear is paramount. The Lifeguard Store, as an expert in lifeguard uniforms and gear, is here to guide you through the selection process of swimwear for lifeguards.
The objective of our lifeguard swimwear is to ensure lifeguards can move swiftly without restriction, whether they are at a recreational pool or the ocean. Functionality should never be compromised. However, that doesn’t mean lifeguards swimwear can’t have a well-fitting, colorful suit.
Durability and Comfort
A lifeguard’s environment is packed with challenges: the mix of saltwater, sun, sand, and chlorine. Hence, it’s crucial to invest in lifeguard swimwear that includes robust stitching and top-notch elasticity, ensuring longevity and frequent usage. Moreover, comfort is one of the most important factors when looking to buy swimwear. Swimsuits must be well fitting, providing ease both when in the water and when dry.
Fit and Visibility
As much as comfort is essential, a proper fit cannot be overlooked. A swimwear should neither inhibit movement nor be excessively loose. Given the varying conditions, some swimwear may either stretch or shrink over time, so it’s crucial to factor this in. Additionally, color choice plays a crucial role. Typically, lifeguard swimwear is red with white lettering, but other colors, such as blue or black, can be considered depending on specific roles. These colors aren’t just for distinction but to amplify visibility.
For women, choices range from one-piece suits to bikinis and tankinis. It’s imperative that the selected style doesn’t impede movement, especially during emergencies. Men, on the other hand, can choose from trunks, boardshorts, briefs, and jammers. Regardless of gender, the chosen lifeguard swimwear should stand out, ensuring immediate recognition even from a distance.
Material Matters
When considering swimwear for lifeguards, the material shouldn’t be an afterthought. Commonly, an 80% nylon blend combined with spandex is preferred due to its comfort and quick-drying properties. Polyester blends, though less stretchy, offer enhanced resistance to UV rays and chlorine, making them a viable choice.
Choosing the right lifeguard swimwear comes down to a blend of function, fit, and visibility. It’s an essential aspect of a lifeguard’s tool kit, designed to maximize efficiency while ensuring safety. With the vast options available, always prioritize comfort, durability, and visibility. The Lifeguard Store is committed to offering the best swimwear for lifeguards, ensuring you’re always ready, always visible, and always in style. Shop with The Lifeguard Store today!