Backstroke with Balance and Flow
Discover Ease, Power, and Poise on Your Back
Often overlooked, backstroke is one of the most graceful and liberating strokes when approached mindfully. With the Shaw Method, backstroke becomes more than just a technique—it’s a chance to experience deep relaxation, rhythmic movement, and full-body integration.
Floating on your back, supported by warm water, you’ll learn to swim with confidence, strength, and flow—without strain or stress. This is an ideal stroke for releasing tension in the spine and neck while building overall coordination and balance.
Why Learn Backstroke the Shaw Method Way?
- Supports spinal health – ideal for releasing tension in the neck and back
- Promotes calmness – learn to feel safe and relaxed while floating on your back
- Improves posture and strength – through mindful, integrated movement
- Boosts confidence – backstroke becomes a go-to stroke for enjoyment and ease
Whether you’re new to backstroke or looking to refresh your skills, our warm water classes and small group teaching provide the perfect setting to glide with confidence.
Level 1: Learning Backstroke with the Shaw Method
Who’s it for?
This course is perfect for swimmers who are:
-
Comfortable being on their back in the water
-
Able to glide or swim short distances
-
Looking to learn or improve backstroke with greater ease and efficiency
What to Expect
In Level 1, you’ll explore the foundations of Shaw Method backstroke. You’ll learn to align your body for maximum support and buoyancy, develop a powerful yet relaxed leg kick, and coordinate your arms with rotational movement for smooth, effortless propulsion.
By the end of the course, you’ll:
-
Achieve a stable and supported body position on your back
-
Develop fluid, well-timed arm and leg movements
-
Learn to use gentle body rotation to enhance streamlining
-
Discover a continuous, flowing rhythm in your stroke
-
Establish a calm, relaxed breathing pattern
Level 2: Refine, Strengthen, and Expand
Who’s it for?
Returning Shaw Method swimmers and confident backstrokers who want to refine their technique, increase propulsion, and explore deeper body awareness in the water.
What to Expect
Level 2 focuses on enhancing backstroke fluency and power. You’ll fine-tune your coordination, streamline your rotation, and develop a stronger relationship between movement and breath. The result? A backstroke that feels light, rhythmic, and energising.
By the end of the course, you’ll:
-
Improve rhythm, timing, and propulsion
-
Refine your balance and alignment for reduced drag
-
Strengthen the legs and core without overexertion
-
Feel more at ease and confident in the water
Ready to Begin or Continue Your Backstroke Journey?
Whether you’re dipping your toe in for the first time or looking to elevate your stroke, the Art of Swimming Academy offers a range of backstroke courses and workshops to support your goals.