My 10 year old son just started swimming on a non-competitive swim team this year. He mentioned in passing that he holds his breath while his face is in the water when swimming freestyle. He is not very fast right now, so it probably doesn't harm him now, but I would like to break him of this habit before it sticks! He said the timing of the exhale and inhale confuses him and he ends up choking on water. He breathes every 3 strokes and I've always learned to breathe every other stroke. How does the exhale/inhale work for every 3 strokes. It seems like a long time to exhale?
As you explained, at 10 years old, your son is just beginning his swimming journey. He should be exposed to a variety of techniques, and continue to work on swimming lessons, focusing on technique and overall swimming development in a way that is positive and encouraging. You should definitely speak with your son's coach to describe your son's difficulties and get his/her input. He/she would have the best perspective on your son's progress and be able to make the appropriate decision as to what next steps to take.
As you explained, at 10 years old, your son is just beginning his swimming journey. He should be exposed to a variety of techniques, and continue to work on swimming lessons, focusing on technique and overall swimming development in a way that is positive and encouraging. You should definitely speak with your son's coach to describe your son's difficulties and get his/her input. He/she would have the best perspective on your son's progress and be able to make the appropriate decision as to what next steps to take.
