Propulsion Skills (DS)
INTRODUCTIONFor the Propulsion Skills assessment on Baseline Day, we use the Distance Swim (DS) to evaluate students.
The Distance Swim is an assessment tool designed to evaluate an individual's Propulsion Competency endurance. It measures the ability to propel for a continuous period while at or near the surface, with no specific requirements for form, technique, or body position. The Distance Swim is performed as a single-effort swim, rather than as a “survivability test” (which would allow periods of rest using Stationary Surface Competencies, such as floating and treading). Because it is an assessment tool, rather than a skill or activity, it does not directly contribute to the development of a competency; it is a measurement of a specific aspect of propulsion competency.
The Distance Swim is defined as the following:
Body
Body positioned on surface; may be performed on front, on back, and/or on side
Arms and Legs
Arms and/or legs move to propel forward; may use any stroke, technique, or form
Breathing
Breathing may be controlled, held, or an irregular pattern
Timing
Swim is continuous
Scoring
The Distance Swim is assessed by measuring distance swam.
The following scoring rules specify when to halt the assessment. A single measurement is recorded based on the instructor’s judgment of the student’s performance.
Record distance swum until student exhibits any of the following:
Note: record a — (dash) if a student is not willing to attempt
✖ Requires assistance or becomes unsafe
✖ Stops swimming on front, back or side
✖ Swims mostly underwater
✖ Stands on or pushes off the pool bottom
✖ Holds on to a stationary object or flotation aid
✖ Touches or kicks the pool wall, the instructor, or another student repeatedly
✔ Reaches maximum distance of 25 yards