Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Practice Exam

What characterizes the early stage of learning in swimming skills?

1. Movements are accurate and rapid

2. Movements are slow and awkward

3. Movements are fast and smooth

4. Movements require minimal thought

The correct answer is: Movements are slow and awkward

The early stage of learning swimming skills is characterized by movements that are slow and awkward. This stage is often referred to as the cognitive or beginner stage, where individuals are just starting to understand the basic mechanics of the swimming movements they are trying to master. During this phase, swimmers may struggle to coordinate their arms and legs, resulting in a lack of fluidity and grace. They are still developing their muscle memory and often have to consciously think about each movement, which can make them appear hesitant or uncoordinated. As learners progress beyond this initial stage, they will typically begin to develop greater confidence and comfort in the water, leading to smoother and more rapid movements. However, in the early stage, the emphasis is on grasping the fundamental concepts and techniques, which naturally results in slower and more awkward executions of the skills.