A mushroom float (or tuck float) is a swimming technique where the swimmer holds into a ball, hugging their knees to their chest while floating on the surface of the water. This position is often used in PE swimming lessons and water safety training.
When is a Mushroom Float Used?
- Resting - To conserve energy while staying afloat, especially in deep water.
- Water Safety - As part of survival skills if children find themselves in an emergency situation.
- Developing Buoyancy Awareness - Teaching pupils how their body naturally floats.
In a tuck float stay rounded and compact to enhance buoyancy.
Mushroom Float Teaching Points
- Pull knees to chest and wrap arms around legs.
- Take a deep breath and tip forward until the face is in the water.
- Keep head tucked in, chin to chest, to maintain balance.
- Stay rounded and compact to enhance buoyancy.
- Keep muscles relaxed, especially in the back and shoulders, to aid floatation.