Developing a Swimming Training Program to Improve Swimming Skills in Lishui City, the People’s Republic of China

Background and Aims: Improving swimming skills enhances safety by reducing the risk of drowning and boosts physical fitness through a full-body, low-impact workout. It also builds confidence in the water, enabling participation in various aquatic activities. This study aimed to (1) examine the effectiveness of a structured swimming training program for lower secondary students at Kuocang Middle School, China, who lacked basic swimming skills, and (2) compare its outcomes to traditional swimming instruction. Methodology: A quasi-experimental design was employed involving 30 students (aged 13–15), randomly assigned to an experimental group (structured program) and a control group (traditional program). Training was conducted three times per week for eight weeks. Swimming proficiency was assessed through pre-test and post-tests at weeks 2, 4, and 8. Results: Participants in the structured swimming program showed statistically significant improvement in swimming proficiency at all measured intervals. After the program (week 8), the experimental group had a notably higher mean score (8.20) compared to the control group (5.15). The comparative analysis revealed significant skill development differences at weeks 2, 4, and 8 (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The structured swimming program was significantly more effective in enhancing swimming skills among lower secondary school students compared to traditional teaching methods. Educational institutions should integrate structured swimming curricula into their programs to effectively develop students' swimming abilities, ensure safety, and promote sustained skill retention.