The mountain and the moon

The sternum thrust is learned with this land exercise: the mountain is the bent knees, the moon the synchronized semi-circular leg movement. Sit opposite your child and demonstrate step by step: 1) legs and feet fully extended, hands supporting behind; 2) pull the legs up, knees touching, feet together and extended — the mountain; 3) turn the feet outwards, heels still touching; 4) move the feet forward in a synchronized circular motion along an imagined circle (the moon), turning them inwards halfway until legs and feet are extended and closed again. Repeat dozens of times, slowly at first, then faster, waiting at least two seconds between kicks. Focus on the circular movement and correct foot position. Once mastered on land, sit on a board at the pool edge and repeat with the legs in the water, displacing as much water as possible.