Jerky, struggling strokes inhibit swimming and floating and will cause
the beginner to bob up and down like the block of wood. If the man slows
down his actions in the water, he will have less tendency to bob up and
down. Any fast thrust of the arms or legs will change the depth of the
body and start it bobbing. A wild, convulsive stroke will produce

enough force to change the floating state of the swimmer. The beginner
must be cautioned to move slowly and in a relaxed manner. It should also
be noted that the force expended in convulsive and jerky strokes uses

up too much energy and will bring on premature fatigue. Since the blue-
jacket may need to conserve his energy he should be impressed with the
reasons for slow, relaxed swimming. (Fig, 4)

Breathing, buoyancy, and relaxation are important factors closely
related to the problems of swimming. The instructor must understand
the scientific background of these problems. No bluejacket can swim
or keep afloat for a great length of time unless he has been taught to
make the best possible use of his energy in relation to his breathing,
buoyancy, and relaxation.

In order to help the instructor to teach the recruit the various
skills and techniques related to swimming, the method of instruction
must include some competitive activity. Such techniques as floating
for time, gliding for distance, plunge for distance, picking up
objects in shallow water with eyes open, and various other skills may

be used as games. Competition tends to keep the men on their toes

and working better. The competition should be kept at the level of
swimming ability of the group or individual at any given time. Any

simple type of award should be used for an incentive. Intelligent

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