Welcome to the Art of Swimming & the Shaw Method

Founded in 1987 by Steven Shaw, the unique Shaw Method approach to swimming applies the proven principles of the Alexander Technique. With a focus on promoting optimal body alignment, grace, and flow, the Shaw Method is designed to work for all ages and abilities, with a particular focus on adults.

Learn to swim in a way that keeps your spine and body in perfect alignment. Our experienced instructors will guide you on a journey to glide gracefully through the water, improving your health and mastering one of the most profound life skills.

With a variety of learning formats to suit your needs, including private lessons, group classes, workshops, and more, the Art of Swimming and the Shaw Method is the perfect place to unlock your true swimming potential.

“As always, the perfect mix of fundamental principles and more advanced skills, delivered in an efficient, yet unhurried style”

“I especially liked the way the method (in this case crawl) was broken down into clear, concise exercises which I could do.  My body and mind became increasingly confident in the water and with the process.”

” I understood what was meant and, if I didn’t, felt it was explained in a way I could, with pure compassion, clarity and expertise.”

“The workshop was brilliant. Everything was very clearly explained and demonstrated. Any questions were answered clearly and helpfully.”

“It was clear that all the teachers really cared about what they were doing. All in all, the whole day was a superb experience and reinvigorated my desire to swim. I will certainly be booking more Art of Swimming courses in the future.”

“All the teachers were very clear at all times verbally and in demonstrating in order to illustrate points.”

“Always interesting and enough variety to keep students interested.”

“Very clear explanations throughout, including why we were doing particular activities or practices.”

“Course leader and assistants all very knowledgeable and encouraging. They were able to identify issues and advise accordingly.”

How we teach

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Lorraine, ITV

For Lorraine’s Change One Thing campaign, Elaine wanted to learn to swim
after having a fear of water since the age of 12. With the help of  Steven Shaw, she starts to face her fear.