The Shaw Method

The Shaw Method was founded by Steven Shaw, a teacher of the Alexander technique and ex-competitive swimmer. In the 1980s he began to experiment with applying the Alexander Technique to swimming. (Find out more about Steven Shaw and the origins of the Method at www.artofswimming.com.)

How is it different?

More than in conventional swimming teaching, the Shaw Method pays attention to the quality of each movement, rather than the quantity. Swimmers undertake a series of progressive exercises to build up an understanding of each stroke and the most efficient way to swim it.

True to its roots in the Alexander Technique, the Method also emphasises the need to pay attention to the alignment of the head, neck, and back to encourage easy breathing, and teaches the swimmer to recognise and eliminate unnecessary tension throughout the body, whilst performing each stroke.

Who is it for?

The Shaw Method is suitable for beginner swimmers who are apprehensive about the water but want to conquer their fear, for improvers who want to learn the rudiments of technique and for competent swimmers who want to improve their feel for the water and increase their efficiency. 
We welcome any age of swimmer. Our oldest pupil to date is 82 years old.

Unlike many swim classes, Alexander Swimming keeps group numbers small and teachers teach from in the water to give support and hands-on guidance where necessary. Individual 1-to-1 and 1-to-2 lessons are also available.