Submarine Race: A Game for Learning Controlled Submersion and Resurfacing

Helping children become comfortable underwater is one of the most important steps in learning to swim. However, for many beginners—especially young swimmers—putting their face in the water and resurfacing calmly can feel intimidating.

The “Submarine Race” is a fun and engaging game designed to teach swimmers how to submerge, control their breath, and resurface safely. By turning a key swimming skill into play, instructors can build confidence while reinforcing proper technique.

What Is the Submarine Race?

The Submarine Race is a simple swimming game where participants move underwater like “submarines,” aiming to travel a short distance before resurfacing.

The goal is not speed alone, but controlled submersion, smooth movement, and calm resurfacing.

This game is suitable for:

• Toddlers (with parent support)

• Beginner swimmers

• Young children learning breath control

Skills Developed Through the Game

The Submarine Race focuses on several foundational swimming skills:

Breath Control

Swimmers learn to hold their breath comfortably and avoid panic underwater.

Water Confidence

Repeated submersion helps reduce fear and builds familiarity with being underwater.

Body Control

Moving underwater encourages balance, coordination, and streamlined positioning.

Safe Resurfacing

Children practice coming up calmly and breathing properly after submersion.

How to Set Up the Submarine Race

Setting up the game is quick and easy.

Equipment Needed:

• Pool noodles (optional)

• Sinkable toys or markers

• Goggles (optional but helpful)

Basic Setup:

• Choose a short distance (e.g., 2–5 meters)

• Mark a starting and ending point

• Ensure the water depth is safe for all participants

For beginners, shorter distances are recommended to build confidence.

How to Play

1. Swimmers line up at the starting point

2. On the instructor’s signal, they submerge like a “submarine”

3. They move forward underwater using gentle kicks or glides

4. Swimmers resurface when needed or at the finish point

The swimmer who reaches the end with the best control—not necessarily the fastest—can be celebrated.

Teaching Controlled Submersion

One of the key objectives of the game is teaching swimmers how to submerge properly.

Tips:

• Encourage blowing bubbles before going underwater

• Ask swimmers to lower their face slowly instead of forcing it

• Keep movements relaxed and unhurried

This helps reduce anxiety and promotes a positive experience.

Teaching Smooth Resurfacing

Resurfacing is just as important as submersion.

Swimmers should learn to:

• Lift their head gently above the water

• Take a calm breath

• Maintain balance after resurfacing

Avoid sudden or panicked movements, which can disrupt confidence and stability.

Game Variations to Increase Engagement

To keep the activity fresh and exciting, instructors can introduce variations.

Treasure Submarine

Place sinkable toys along the path. Swimmers collect one item before resurfacing.

Team Relay

Divide swimmers into teams. Each swimmer completes the submarine path before the next begins.

Glide Challenge

Encourage swimmers to glide as far as possible underwater before kicking.

Obstacle Course

Add floating objects to swim under or around.

These variations maintain excitement while reinforcing key skills.

Safety Considerations

Safety should always be a priority during underwater activities.

Important guidelines:

• Never force a child to submerge

• Ensure constant supervision

• Keep distances short for beginners

• Allow swimmers to resurface anytime they need

• Watch for signs of discomfort or fatigue

A safe environment builds trust and encourages participation.

Encouraging Confidence Through Play

The Submarine Race works because it removes pressure and replaces it with fun. Children are more willing to try new skills when they feel relaxed and supported.

Instructors should:

• Praise effort, not just performance

• Celebrate small achievements

• Keep the atmosphere positive and playful

Confidence gained through games often translates into better swimming progress.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While the game is simple, a few mistakes can reduce its effectiveness:

• Turning it into a strict competition

• Allowing overly long underwater distances

• Ignoring fearful swimmers

• Rushing children who need more time

The focus should always remain on learning and enjoyment, not winning.

Final Thoughts

The Submarine Race is a powerful teaching tool that combines fun with essential swimming skills. By practicing controlled submersion and calm resurfacing in a playful setting, swimmers develop confidence, breath control, and comfort in the water.

When used regularly, this game helps build a strong foundation for more advanced swimming techniques—while ensuring that every lesson remains enjoyable and engaging.

In the end, the best learning happens when children are smiling, exploring, and feeling safe in the water.