
Pack your swimsuit on top.
Those are always the instructions when packing for summer camp, because one of the first things we will have to do when we get there is the swim test. The BSA swim test is used to determine ability level so that participants can swim in an area which is appropriate for them.
Scouts and adults must pass the BSA swim test to take part in most aquatics activities. At camp, there is always a buddy board where you check in according to your ability level. The swim test is also used as a requirement for some advancement. Almost any rank advancement involving swimming or boating will require a swim test.
Sometimes Scouts will be very disappointed in themselves if they don’t get the Swimmer level right away. I just tell them to take pride in doing the best they can. Camp staff will often let them try again later in the week and I have seen several Scouts pass on a second try.
BSA Swim Test Summary
Swimmer
- Jump feet first into water over the head, level off, and begin swimming.
- Swim 75 yards in a strong manner using one or more of the following strokes: side, breast, trudgen, or crawl. Swim 25 yards using an easy, resting backstroke.
- The 100 yards must be completed without stops and must include at least one sharp turn.
- Rest by floating…Long enough to demonstrate ability to rest when exhausted.
Beginner
- Jump feet first into water over the head, level off, and begin swimming.
- Swim 25 feet on the surface.
- Stop, turn, and resume swimming back to the starting place.
Non-Swimmer
- Did not complete either of the swimming tests.
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Safe Swim Defense
The BSA Swim Test is part of Safe Swim Defense, a series of requirements for all BSA swimming activities.
BSA Aquatics Safety
Learn more details about the requirements for aquatics activities under the auspices of the BSA.
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