The survival technique of treading water is the practice of moving your arms and legs to keep your head above water. A proven life-saver, treading water is an important skill for everyone – from those who don’t know how to swim, to novice swimmers and even experienced swimmers. Treading water can help keep you safe in emergencies as well as simply serving as an easy way to remain afloat without expending too much energy.

If you are in a dire situation, such as waiting to be rescued, the most important things you can do are remain calm and pace yourself, and treading water in the proper manner allows you to do exactly that. 

To tread water properly, keep your body upright and balanced in the water while pedaling in a circular motion or pointing your feet in a downward direction and kicking in a fast flutter. Use your arms to help maintain your position on top of the water by moving them back and forth horizontally against the water. 

You can alternate floating with treading water, which helps conserve valuable energy as well. You can also tread water horizontally or doggie paddle, but treading water vertically is actually your best option. 

To safely learn the proper way to tread water, it is best to begin under the watchful eye of a lifeguard or experienced swimmer. You can practice with a floatation device, such as a swimming pool noodle, under your arms for support until you feel confident that you have mastered this essential water safety technique.