Discover the Joy of Swimming – One Stroke at a Time
At the Art of Swimming, we teach the four main strokes—Front Crawl, Breaststroke, Backstroke, and Butterfly—as well as specialist courses like Breathing with Ease and Confidence in the Water, using the Shaw Method. This unique approach, rooted in the Alexander Technique, emphasises mindful movement, efficient technique, and a joyful, stress-free experience in the water.
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your technique, our courses are designed to help you move with greater freedom, confidence, and ease.
Front Crawl Technique
Discover a new way of swimming front crawl with grace and efficiency. Using the principles of the Shaw Method, this course helps you release unnecessary tension and develop effortless propulsion through the water. You’ll learn to coordinate breathing, body alignment and smooth arm recovery to create a more fluid and enjoyable swimming experience. Ideal for beginners or those looking to refine their technique.
Breaststroke with Ease
This classic stroke is reimagined through the Shaw Method to prioritise joint-friendly movement, balance and rhythm. Learn how to avoid strain, improve glide, and use your breath to enhance your swimming. The stroke is taught in a progressive, easy-to-follow way that builds confidence and coordination—especially beneficial for swimmers with back or neck sensitivity.
Backstroke
Gain poise and control as you glide on your back with ease. The Shaw Method approach teaches a more integrated and balanced form of backstroke that reduces tension in the neck and shoulders while improving alignment and rhythm. This stroke is particularly useful for developing spatial awareness, core strength, and relaxation in the water.
Butterfly Swimming Stroke
Often seen as the most powerful yet challenging stroke, butterfly becomes far more accessible through the Shaw Method. Learn to harness wave-like undulation and timing rather than brute strength. This course breaks the stroke down into manageable components, helping you move with rhythm, control and a surprising sense of lightness. Ideal for experienced swimmers ready to explore new territory.
Confidence in the Water
If you’ve ever felt unsure or anxious in the pool, this course is for you. Designed to build a deep sense of safety and trust in the water, it teaches foundational aquatic skills including floating, gliding, breath awareness and body orientation. Through a warm, supportive environment, you’ll learn to overcome fear, develop natural buoyancy, and rediscover the joy of being in the water.
Breathing with Ease
Breath is at the heart of every stroke—and this course helps you connect with it in a new, more empowering way. Breathing with Ease focuses on developing rhythm, calm, and coordination in the water, using Shaw Method techniques rooted in the Alexander Technique. You’ll learn to reduce breath-holding, manage timing more effectively, and discover how posture and movement influence your ability to breathe freely. Ideal for swimmers who find breathing the most challenging part of their technique, or anyone looking to swim with more mindfulness, control, and enjoyment.
Flow and Freedom: Exploring the Alexander Technique and Water
Join Steven Shaw and his expert team for this half-day experiential workshop that blends land-based and in-water learning. Designed for Alexander Technique teachers, students, and mindful movers, this unique session explores how water enhances body awareness, breath, and ease of movement. With a small group setting and hands-on guidance, you’ll gain transformative insights that support both your swimming and everyday life. Ideal for anyone curious to experience the Shaw Method through the lens of somatic exploration.
Ready to Dive In?
Browse all upcoming courses and workshops and book your space today.