- 1). Begin learning the sidestroke by using the edge of a swimming pool to perfect your form. Hold onto the side of the pool with one hand, and extend your body out on your side with the side of your head parallel to your arm. Keep your legs tight together, pointing your toes, while keeping your extended arm firm. Lay your free arm at your side. Switch back and forth between arms until you get used to being on your side in water.
- 2). Begin kicking your legs gently while maintaining a side position. Kicking, while doing the sidestroke, will not only help move, but your free arm will be able to hold onto other things, such as a person. Kicking also helps prevent your arms from getting tired.
- 3). Continue holding onto the wall until you are comfortable enough to let go, and you are able to stay in a horizontal position. You are ready to sidestroke when you are able to do it without holding onto something.
- 4). Grab the wall with your right hand. Turn away from the wall and extend your left arm out. Use the wall to push yourself away with your feet. Begin kicking your feet closely together to stay afloat. Maintain a horizontal position and keep your face above water.
- 5). Use your extended arm to guide you, and to keep your body's top half afloat while the kicking is keeping you afloat at the hips and legs. Your extended arm should remain straight in front of you. Allow it to acting as a guide, as your free arm moves in a circular motion over your head and back to your side, pushing water under your body while also moving you forward.