Floating is one of the most fundamental aspects of swimming, allowing swimmers to propel themselves through the water effectively and efficiently. However, there are a variety of factors that can impact someone’s floating ability.
This week’s Tuesday Tips post will discuss such factors and techniques that can be used to improve floating ability.
The science-y bit
Floating is characterised by the ability of a person to remain at the top of the water without sinking. This can be affected by a variety of different factors.
Firstly, the distribution of different tissues throughout the body will impact buoyancy. When fat (adipose) tissue is concentrated in one area of the body, this moves the individual’s centre of buoyancy closer to their centre of gravity. This has a resulting effect of buoyancy. Contrastingly, individuals with a lower amount of adipose tissue will struggle to float. This means that having a higher percentage of body fat generally increases buoyancy, making it easier for a person to float. Muscle, on the other hand, is denser than fat, so highly muscular individuals may find floating more challenging, especially if they carry more muscle in the lower half of the body, which can affect balance in the water.
Another factor is lung capacity. When you inhale and expand your lungs, you increase your body’s volume without increasing its mass. This creates greater buoyant force and temporarily improves floating ability. That’s why calm, rhythmic breathing plays a huge role in floating confidently.
Lastly, body position and relaxation levels matter more than people realise. Tension causes muscles to contract, which tightens the body and makes it more likely to sink. A relaxed, spread-out posture with the head in line with the spine helps to evenly distribute mass and maintain equilibrium on the water’s surface.
Techniques to improve floating
Whether you’re a beginner or just looking to feel more comfortable in the water, here are a few tips to boost your buoyancy and confidence:
- Master your breathing: Practise slow, deep breaths that fill your lungs. Holding a full breath for a few seconds at a time during float drills can enhance lift and calm the body.
- Stay relaxed: Floatation isn’t a battle. Try lying back in shallow water and consciously release tension from your neck, shoulders and limbs. The more relaxed you are, the more naturally your body will stay afloat.
- Body alignment drills: Work on streamline positions and star floats. Keeping your body elongated and symmetrical helps distribute weight and maintain surface position.
- Kick lightly if needed: If your legs tend to sink, try a gentle flutter kick — not for propulsion, but for support.
- Use buoyancy aids for confidence: Noodles, kickboards or float belts can bridge the gap between fear and freedom in early stages of learning.
Final remarks
Floating may seem simple, but it’s a nuanced skill that brings together science, self-awareness, and technique. At Mighty Splash, we believe everyone can find their float with the right guidance and a little patience.
Mighty Splash offers swimming lessons for all ages. Click here to find out more about the lessons we offer!
