Learning how to swim should be a priority for every family because swimming is a survival skill. It’s not just a sport or a form of recreation. It is a life skill that equips your child to prevent drowning and possibly save someone else as well.
Do you know that drowning is the third leading cause of unintentional injury death all over the world? It accounts for 7% of all injury-related deaths. Also, there are an estimated 360, 000 annual drowning deaths worldwide. (World Health Organization, 2019). That is why it is important to learn how to swim.
In this post, I will tell you everything you need to know about swimming lessons at Bert Lozada Swim School.
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Personally, I didn’t learn how to swim in a proper swim school. I don’t have any idea how to teach my son how to float or do the swim strokes that I can do. I knew I had to enroll him in a swim school sooner or later. But truth be told, swim schools are not popular in my area. With very few choices, deciding where to enroll him is difficult.
My son used to like swimming until two years ago when he almost drowned. These days, he didn’t enjoy the water as much as he used to. At this state, I really have to pick a reliable swim school so as not to traumatize or scare him further.
Just in time for my swim school search is an invite to try out Bert Lozada Swim School for my son. I got it last week and didn’t hesitate to accept.
We arrived at Ace Water Spa past 8 in the morning.
We went straight to the Function Room on the fifth floor to have an orientation about the day’s lesson flow. The participants were fellow mommy bloggers who also got an invite from Bert Lozada Swim School (BLSS).
During the orientation, the CEO of BLSS talked about the importance of learning how to swim. He emphasized that swimming is a life skill. Further, during the orientation, we also got to know more about the BLSS.
After the short talk, we were guided to the spa on the ground floor. We got our locker keys, went into the shower room, changed for swim attire, showered, and then headed to the pool area.
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| Kids ready to take their swim lessons with Bert Lozada Swim School teachers |
The lesson started with group pictures. I’m kidding. It started with a warm-up.
When the teacher called for a warm-up, the kids all assembled in line. At this time, I could sense my son’s anxiety. He didn’t want to participate. I asked him to follow what the teacher was doing and even demonstrated myself for him. He burst into tears.
After the warm-up, the kids went into the water. Ethan did too because I went with him. The teacher was demonstrating some basic techniques like breathing exercises or dipping the face into the water which all the kids, except my son, eagerly followed.
The teacher reached out to my son several times but he still didn’t want to participate. At this point, I was feeling helpless. Also, feeling so sorry for my son.
Finally, the teacher called another instructor to personally assist Ethan. Coach Oliver reassured my son he wouldn’t drown. He just needed to trust him.
The first few minutes of Coach Oliver persuading Ethan were difficult to look at. It was a struggle. But after tons of patience and encouragement, my son lit up. He, slowly but surely, went into the water and followed what coach Oliver was teaching him. I felt loads of relief! Thanks to Coach Oliver for knowing how to handle my son!
After the lesson was finished, we had a chance to interview BLSS CEO and staff. I took note of some takeaways which I am now sharing with you. Here are the reasons why you need to enroll your child in Bert Lozada Swim School (BLSS):
1. BLSS has been tried and tested since 1956
BLSS has been in business for more than 6 decades. From a single venue in 1956 (YMCA Manila), it now has 56 venues all over the country. The school has produced 7 Olympians, several national swimmers and record holders.
2. BLSS provides fun and safe swimming lessons
At BLSS, they each your kids to swim in a safe, fun and engaging atmosphere and have found that there is more than one benefit to your child’s development. They provide fun swimming activities using safe swim gear/equipment/paraphernalia
Swim instructors are trained and certified through a nationally recognized learn-to-swim curriculum. They also have CPR and first aid certification.
3.BLSS has a lot of awards
It is truly a reputable swim school which has proved its competence by receiving major awards:
- 1st Place Best Swim School Picture 2009 by United States Swim School Conference
- 2005 Best Swim School by Philippine Marketing Association
4. BLSS takes swimming closer to you
BLSS has over 70 venues nationwide. You can check this link for the complete list.
5. At BLSS, learning requires no age
BLSS offers a variety of programs for all ages. They train beginners to advance learners. They also offer individual programs to community programs. You can let your kids swim as early as 6 months old and they still teach up to 85 years old.
6. BLSS has highly skilled coaches
BLSS Master Coaches undergo comprehensive formal training courses and seminars abroad. These acquired techniques are constantly updated, adapted and passed on to the entire BLSS Member-Coaches.
The coaches focus on swim stroke techniques as well as broader water survival competency skills.
The coaches are also knowledgeable about handling students who are shy, scared or difficult.
Instructors evaluate learner’s progress and give ongoing feedback on their skill levels.
7. BLSS has International Affiliates
- United States Swim School Association
- World Swimming Coaches Association
- World Aquatic Babies and Children Network
- World Aquatic Babies Congress
- Aquatic Achievers Swim Schools
- Miracle Swimming For Adults
8. BLSS has Local Affiliates
- Philippine Medical Association
- Triathlon Association of the Philippines
9.BLSS offers PE/ Varsity sports program
BLSS can provide and implement to all grade/year levels a curriculum for PE or Varsity Sports Program that integrate effective traditional insights with the latest sports science.
10.BLSS produces, trains, and mentors powerful swim teams
BLSS produces, trains, and mentors powerful swim teams who compete in local, regional, national and international swim competitions, sanctioned by Philippine Swimming Inc. (PSI) and whose swim standings are recognized by Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), International Olympic Committee (IOC) and FINA (Federation Internationale de Natation)
11.BLSS Breeds Champions
BLSS has produced 7 Olympians, several national swimmers and record holders.
12. BLSS equips you with power in the water
Which BLSS Swim Program is for you?
Bert Lozada Swim School (BLSS) offers a variety of programs for all ages, both for beginners and advanced swimmers. Here is the list of programs you can avail:
1. BABIES (My Baby and Me Program)
Age requirement: 6 months to 3 years old
An aquatic program designed to teach parents and children to be familiar with the water. Parents are taught how to help their child to be confident and happy in the water and encourage learning through fun activities.
This program will prepare your infant/toddler physically, psychologically and socially for more structured swimming lessons later in life.
LEVEL 1: Starfish(Water Explorer) Age 6 – 12 months
A pre-swimming class with the parent in the water.
LEVEL 2: Puffers(Water Familiar) Age 1 – 2.5 years
For children who are eager to participate with a parent in the water.
LEVEL 3: GUPPIES(Water Safety) Age 2.6 – 4 years
Teaches children to perform basic water safety.
LEVEL 4: Penguins(Water Confident) Age 2.6 – 4 years
For children who are eager to participate with or without a parent in the water.
LEVEL 5: Seals(Water Independent) Age 2.6 – 4 years
For children who are independent of parents and have more confidence in the water.
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| Kids ready to take their swim lessons with Bert Lozada Swim School teachers |
2. KIDS
Age requirement: 4 years old and above
This comprehensive program can teach an absolute beginner both survival skills and sound swimming skills in the four main swimming strokes.
This program graduates into 6 levels as the swimmer develops his/her skills and begin to enjoy the sport more competitively
LEVEL 1: Snapper 1 – Age 4 years old and above
For children who are afraid of the water or little or no swimming experience.
LEVEL 2: Snapper 2 – Age 4 to 6 years old
For children ready to work without the parent or caregiver and are developing 10m Survival Swim and 10m Dog Paddle.
LEVEL 3: JAMMER 1 – Age 7 years old and above
For children who are developing 15m Survival Swim and 15m Basic Freestyle
LEVEL 4: JAMMER 2 – Age 7 years old and above
For children who are developing 15m Backstroke and 15m Butterfly
LEVEL 5: JAMMER 3 – Age 7 years old and above
For children who are developing 15m Breast Stroke and Advance freestyle mechanics
3. SWIM SQUAD
Age requirement: Age 5 years old and above
A pre-competitive swim program with supervised coaching, open to individuals who can swim all four strokes (freestyle, butterfly, breaststroke, backstroke).
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| Mommies and some kids with Bert Lozada Swim School (BLSS) CEO |
4. ADULTS
Age requirement: 16 to 85 years old
Proper breathing techniques and stroke correction for adults with or without any background in swimming.
INTRO TO SWIM
Teaches comfort in the water, confidence, and being in control: the ability to be yourself in water, whether it’s shallow or deep, pool, lake, or ocean. Being able to rely on yourself—not on the bottom or the side of the pool—for your safety. shallow or deep, pool, lake, or ocean. If you’re afraid or not comfortable in the water, this is the perfect program for you!
BASIC
Teaches fundamental skills like floating, arm & leg action and breathing in a stress-free, encouraging atmosphere. Focuses on survival stroke and freestyle.
ADVANCE 1
Stroke drills and expert coaching allow you to develop the perfect technique in breaststroke and backstroke.
ADVANCE 2
Stroke drills and expert coaching allow you to develop perfect technique in advance freestyle and butterfly.
POWER SWIM
Teaches racing technique and preparation to athletes of all levels. Through specially designed workouts and proper stroke management, students will be able to swim faster with efficient technique. The program’s goal is to help you achieve a lifetime of swimming improvement.
POWER TRI
This program is made for triathletes, starting or developing, to help them start, enjoy and finish their race. The program includes proper techniques in running, cycling, swimming, transitions, race strategies and nutrition.
How to prepare for your child’s first swim class:
If you have decided to sign up your child for swim lessons, there are probably questions running through your head. How do you prepare your child for his/her first swim class? Here are a few helpful tips for you.
1. Help your child get comfortable with water
Help your child get comfortable with water by pouring clear, not soapy, water over his/her face in the bath. This will slowly get him/her used to water getting into his/her ears and face.
2. Condition their mind and body
Like any class or sport, you have to prepare your child’s mental and physical well being. Talk to your child about what could happen in the class so he can manage his expectations. This will also help him/ her develop a positive attitude towards the lesson. Also, make sure that he gets proper sleep at night so as not to be grumpy or too sleepy for the lesson.
3. Pack your bag with swim essentials
Remember to pack a towel, clothes for changing, goggles and swim cap if you don’t want to use the ones from the facility, some snack, water, and an extra bag for wet clothes.
4. Make him eat a light snack
Make sure to give your child a light snack 30-45 minutes before the lesson starts. Bananas or some dried fruits or nuts will help maintain his/her energy levels during the lesson.
5. Bring your child swim ready
Have your child wear his/her swim attire even before arriving at the facility. This will save you some hassle of changing him/her quickly before the start of the swim lesson.
6. Arrive early
For your first swim lesson, try to arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of the lesson time. This will give your child enough time to be familiar with the facility as well as with the instructor.
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| It’s a good decision to enroll my son in Bert Lozada Swim School |
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- DISCLAIMER:
- The photos taken at the pool area of Ace Water Spa in Pasig are solely for promotional purposes. As per rule, the management prohibits capturing photos or videos inside the spa. Mobile phones and cameras are not allowed in the pool area.
Contact Bert Lozada Swim School Main Office
Address: 2401 Tejeron St., Sta. Ana Manila, 1009
Landline: +(632) 563-5532, +(632) 800-1357
Mobile no.: 0917-700-SWIM (7946)
Fax: +(632) 562-8041
Email: info@bertlozadaswimschool.com
Parting Words
Enrolling your child in quality swim lessons―once he or she is ready for them―is one of the most effective ways to help prevent drowning. The swim school I recommend: Bert lozada Swim School. This swim school has been equipping swimmers power in the water for more than six decades. BLSS equips your child the essential components of water safety and survival, as well as strong and effective swim techniques, and most importantly, confidence and comfort in the water.
