FIRST CLASS SCOUT

FLOATING

Floating faceup is probably the best way to rest in deep water. This simple skill requires buoy- ancy and balance. Buoyancy comes mainly from the air you hold in your lungs, and the balance is achieved by distributing your body mass above and below your chest. Think of your lungs as balloons supporting the center of a seesaw. You want to spread the weight so the seesaw balances and holds steady in the water. You add weight above your chest by extending your arms above your shoulders and bending your head as far hack as your neck will stretch.

Practice in chest-deep water. Start from a standing position. Take a deep breath and hold it. Bend your knees slightly and lean backward, arching your back and stretching your neck backward until your ears are in the water and your chin is your highest point. Slowly extend your arms above the shoulders, palms up. Do not try to armstroke or kick yourself into a higher position, because this will throw you off balance. Relax and let your body settle into its natural floating level and position on the water. The natural floating position for many people is with their legs and feet hanging down almost vertically under the water. Others float high on the water with their hips and legs near the surface.

Begin by holding the float position as long as you can hold your breath. When it is necessary to breathe, quickly blow out a short puff and suck in new air through your nose. As your floating experience and confidence increase, you will be able to breathe in a more relaxed and natural rhythm.