Learn to swim
Generally, the solution can be found by first addressing other elements of the stroke, such as head/body position and body rotation. This course will address all aspects of developing an effective and sustainable front crawl.
This retreat is suitable for anyone who can swim or glide with their face in the water, and wishes to learn a unique, efficient, and inspiring approach to front crawl. Our aim is to introduce a fluid and powerful full-body movement combined with smooth, integrated breathing to this most commonly swum stroke.
By the end of the retreat, you will be more efficient in:
– significantly reducing the amount of effort required to swim the stroke
– establishing a strong sense of rhythm, balance and propulsion
– using optimum rotation of the body to increase streamlining
– recognising the appropriate amount of exertion for the leg action
– achieving the proper timing for the arms
– smoothly integrating front crawl breathing into the stroke by use of ‘passive breathing
About Steven Shaw
As a successful competitive swimmer in his teenage years he dreamed of becoming a champion before overtraining triggered an excruciating shoulder injury. Heartbroken, he left the pool and vowed never to return.
Mastering the Alexander Technique in his 20s meant he was finally able to find relief from his shoulder injury. Steven then wondered if he could apply the holistic principles of the therapy to movement in water.
By adapting his style and technique, Steven was able to swim pain-free with a new sense of freedom and enjoyment. The Shaw Method had been born. For over almost four decades he has enabled thousands of people all over the world to overcome their fear of water and learn to love and embrace it.
His unique method – breaking the strokes down into a series of separate movements learned both in the water and on dry land - makes the learning process both stimulating and enjoyable, inspiring people of all abilities to move through the water with a new sense of ease and freedom beyond what they ever believed possible.
how DOES it work?
The Shaw Method is an innovative, therapeutic approach to swimming which helps people of all abilities transform their relationship with water.
Created by former competitive swimmer, and Alexander Technique practitioner, Steven Shaw (also known as the ‘Horse Whisperer of Swimming’), the method has helped thousands of people – from complete beginners and those with aqua phobia to injured champions – swim with a greater sense of ease, freedom and enjoyment.
The benefits reach far beyond learning an essential life skill. Learning to swim via the Shaw Method promotes and cultivates body awareness, improves posture, confidence and a sense of wellbeing, and encourages a more efficient, functional movement patterns.
Steven has trained hundreds of teachers globally, written two books (‘The Art of Swimming’ and ‘Master the Art of Swimming’) and appears regularly in the national press and media speaking about his groundbreaking work.
Group dryland practice sessions x2
Video feedback
Individual Shaw Method lesson
Individual Alexander Technique lesson
Group pool sessions x5
Group dry land sessions x3
Individualised stroke analysis
Closing session
Use of state-of-the-art gyms
Free sessions and classes, including gym intros, aqua classes, virtual classes, walks and talks.
Plus, up to 20 fitness classes each day
(additional charges apply)
Arrive for the day retreat at 9am
Arrive for the 2-night retreat at 3pm
Depart the day retreat by 6pm.
Depart the 2-night retreat by 4pm.
Check out of room by 11am
To book, please choose your date from the options below and then get in touch with the 'Art of Swimming' team by emailing janet@shawmethod.com or calling 07947 398 982.
Terms & Conditions
There is a minimum number of people required for the break to run.
Breaks will be cancelled if numbers are insufficient two weeks before the start of the break.
Retreat sold out?
On occasion, the retreat may appear sold out online. We may have reserved spaces available, which do not appear on the website.If this is the case, please email cer@champneys.com and include the title and date of the retreat you would like to book.
Alternatively, please call us on 0343 210 1939.
