What Our Students Say
We quote every single student, not just a few!
Berkeley, CA Beginning Class, June, 2010, 9 of 9 students:
"Perfectly set up to work. Take this class. It is not just about learning to swim; it is about learning about yourself on many levels. No one else does it this way. They should, and not just for swimming. The techniques would work well anywhere." —T.G., Berkeley
"I may never have found another way to come this far in deep water. I relearned to trust myself, to be in my body both in and out of the water; to live here and now more of the time. Very thorough. I learned it's okay to go at my own pace." —T.K. San Francisco
"Ten out of ten. It's great!" —E.M., Oakland
"It was worth every penny. You will get the suppport and techniques to feel more comfortable in the water. The slow pace and the emphasis on comfort worked very well for me. So did learning to stay in my body." —F.B.
"It has changed my life. I feel I cannot drown at any spot in the pool." —L.H.
"It's worth the money and the time." —S-L D.
"Great emphasis on fear and how to master it. Incredibly supportive learning environment. Richard is one of the best teachers I have experienced in any field." —O.W.
"This class is mindblowing. Every single person in the class made huge progress no matter where they started. I learned to be in the deep water and not drown!!!!" —L.W.
One comment incoming. 7/3/10
Sarasota, FL, June, 2010, 1 of 1 student:
"I am very happy. I could not find this knowledge or confidence in other lessons I tried. I'm very happy I invested in this." C.L. Venice, FL
Sarasota, FL, Beginning Class, April 2010, 2 of 2 students:
“I feel very, very positive about the whole experience.” —T.F., Toronto
“The entire class was more than I expected. I took away from the class a confidence I have never had in the water. I know I did not master all of the skills, but for me I did exceptionally well. I will take the principles that I have learned and build on them. I loved all of it, especially the games. You are a miracle and the name of your company is no coincidence. I am so happy. I accomplished everything I had hoped to and more. I am amazed at my accomplishments and I owe it to you. What I have gained is priceless.” —D.L., Sarasota, FL
Beginning Severna Park, (Annapolis) MD, March 2010, 5 of 5 students:
“Course Content: 10 ‘Perfect for me’, Handbook: 10, Uniqueness of MSI Teaching ‘Thought provoking and a good reference’: 10, Effectiveness of MSI Teaching: 10 ‘Absolutely unique’, Discussions: 10, Rate your happiness with MSI’s class: 10.” “It has been one of the best adult learning experiences I have chosen to pursue, in terms of swimming and also in terms of looking at some different ways of thinking about personal growth and other life challenges.”
—C.C., Ohio
“My feelings about this class are mostly positive. Some disappointment to have not reached my original goal of being comfortable in the middle and deep end. I think I confused the Beginning class with the Next Step class.”
“Course Content: 10, Handbook: 10, Uniqueness of MSI Teaching: 10, Effectiveness of MSI Teaching: 10, Discussions: 10, Happiness with MSI’s class: 7.5.” —A.C.
“I thought the class was very informative. It provides a strong base for building other swimming skills.” —J.M.
“Been through the program and understood our feeling and difficulties was also beneficial.” —R.S.
(We're checking on conveying this quote correctly! July, 2010)
“Can’t imagine making this much progress with “usual” methods—I’ve tried them!” —L.P.
Beginning Berkeley, CA, February 2010, 6 of 6 students:
“Pure genius. I would reflect on how skills were slowly and patiently built brick by brick without us even knowing it. This gradual approach where we became confident little by little is very ingenious. Very unique, patient approach. You should patent the technique if it’s not. Fantastic. Changed my life—really did. Wish I knew about this eons ago.
What worked for me about this class: first, it’s existence. Nothing else I found out there for adults who finally want to face this fear. Second, the approach is pure genius—so patient, confidence building—perfect for what I was seeking. This class has changed my life and opened up new worlds to me—it worked incredibly quickly to get me going in the right direction.” —J.M. San Francisco
“It’s fantastic—I feel that it has changed my life!” —M.B.
“It definitely is the right approach to learning how to swim and overcoming any fear in water. I was anxious, but very glad I took the class.” —J.O.
“I wish I had taken this class two years ago. Take the class.” —J.L.
“I am glad I took the class. I have come a long way to overcoming my fear of deep water. I would definitely recommend it for anyone afraid of deep water.” —D.M.
“Slow and steady wins the race…” —P.C.
Beginning Sarasota, FL, February 2010, 8 of students:
“Excellent and potentially life-changing IF one takes it with an open mind. Surrender to the techniques and teaching and success is guaranteed.” —H.M. New York
“Miracle Swimming is well named. Miracles happen so often in class, it’s astounding. And yet, it seems completely normal and natural to make so much progress. It’s very very effective.” —K.M., Orlando
“Extremely valuable in discovering oneself in the water. Great way to gain confidence and understand how water works. I would recommend this course to others who cannot swim.” —C.P.
“It is very spiritual with many life lessons as well as learning to swim. Melon is wise, patient, calm and always seems to have a supportive answer.” —F.K., Seattle
“I feel taking this class is without a doubt the best gift I’ve ever given myself!” —S.T. Ann Arbor, MI
“Very impressed especially the classmates inspiring each other.” —B.F., Toronto
“I feel great about this class. I never imagined it could possibly work so well. I came to class not knowing how to float on my front. I’ve left floating on my front, reversing to my back, doing a handstand in water, propelling myself in water, and jumping into the deep (among other things!) —P.L., Philadelphia
“It is a priceless experience, that the only regret I have is that I didn’t do it sooner. To anyone considering the class—if you’re at the point of considering, what can you lose? Even if you don’t come out a freestyler, the freedom in the water will open so many new windows.” —L.R. Philadelphia
Beginning Seattle, WA, January 2010, 5 of 5 students:
“Course Content: 10 ‘I was not sure what this was going to entail, but I am pleasantly surprised’, Handbook: 10 ‘Better than I imagined—more helpful’, Uniqueness of MSI Teaching: 10, Effectiveness of MSI Teaching: 10 ‘As you can tell from our success’, Discussions: 10, Rate your happiness with MSI’s class: 10.” “I think this class is great—the schedule and the content.” —K.T.
“It addressed my specific concerns, fears, and it was more effective than any other programs I’ve tried before.” —L.A.
“Best happiness investment that you’ve ever paid for!” —Y.C.
“Great, great class. My husband will be doing this class. I basically told everyone I know.” —M.A.
“I was skeptical about the potential to teach me to overcome fear. It has worked marvelously so far.” —R.M.
Berkeley, CA, Beginning Class, January 2010, 8 of 8 students:
“Very effective and supportive—Richard is great!”
“For someone who has believed ‘I just can’t swim’ and has never been confident in deep water, this class has been a breakthrough. For the first time, I felt the water support me. Tension and fear is turning into trust.” —A.M.
“The class did everything I could have hoped. While there is a lot more to learn, the class did teach me that swimming is possible.” “Instructors Teaching Style: 10.” —D.H.
“This is the way swimming should always be taught; most classes have it backwards. Instructor Teaching Style: 10.” —M.F.
“It’s wonderful. It works and it’s fun.” “Course Content: 10, Handbook: 10, Uniqueness of MSI Teaching: 10, Effectiveness of MSI Teaching: 10, Discussions: 10, Happiness with MSI’s class: 10.” —P.V.
“Such a great experience to have fun in the water, learn the characteristics of the water in supporting us in the water and that I CAN swim. Just a wonderful class for my life.” —E.R.
“I feel very positive.” “Course Content: 10, Handbook: 10, Uniqueness of MSI Teaching: 10, Effectiveness of MSI Teaching: 10, Discussions: 10, Happiness with MSI’s class: 10.” —V.K.
“The name of the class says it all! It’s a miracle.” “Instructor Teaching Style: 10.” “Course Content: 10, Handbook: 10, Uniqueness of MSI Teaching: 10, Effectiveness of MSI Teaching: 10, Discussions: 10, Happiness with MSI’s class: 10.”
—J.M.
“This class is excellent. I’ve taken swimming classes from 6 other instructors/swim schools and still avoided the water after each of them. MSI really gets what people require to feel free in the water.” “Instructor Teaching Style: 10.” —L.M.
Palm Springs, CA Beginning class, November, 2009, 7 of 7 students:
Taking this class was one of the best decisions I've ever made. Just before you completely give up on the idea of swimming, give this a try. —Paula Wan, NJ
Enjoyed it tremendously. Everything worked well! Joanetta Fields-Van Rijn, Houston
It revolutionized my thinking about water. —Melannie Guyton, Los Angeles
Don't procrastinate, just do it! Realize you are not alone. Stats say nearly 50% of the U.S. population cannot swim or can't swim well. Fulfill yourself! Open your life to new fun, new vacation possibilities. —Ed Dalton, San Jose, CA
Amazing, truly inspirational class. Sign up now. You won't be disappointed. —Chad Olsen, Chicago
9 out of 10 for discussions. 10 out of ten for course content, handbook, uniqueness of MSI teaching, effectiveness of MSI teaching and happiness with MSI class! —Elaine Dovas, PA
Sometimes...the right things take a long time to find. I spent 45 years miserable with my own fears of the water. In 5 days I learned the truth of "Good things come to those who wait." I look forward to adding swimming to my life resume!—Brian Diamond, NJ
Sarasota Beginning class, October, 2009, 8 of 8 students:
"Titled correctly: Miracle." "Course well-designed. Discussions always rich and deep."
—Alton Hoke, Atlanta
Well worth the cost. I started with a fear of deep water. Now I have had fun in deep water. The course progressions, using games, overcame our fears. The instructors answered our questions and made very good suggestions.
—Alex Jung, New Port Richey, FL
"I would definitely recommend this class to others."
—Maria Elena Acosta, Miami
"It was a truly rewarding experience. The tools gained here will help anyone be comfortable in water: at your own pace. Melon's teachings are a simple yet revolutionary way to think about swimming and lessons. Revolutionary because her system allows you to build trust in yourself and access what you already possess within, to feel safe, comfortable and free, at all times, in any body of water. I didn't want to get out of the water."
—Michelle Gachette, Boston
"Everything should be taught this way. Exceptional. The only way to learn."
—Bruce Ruppel, NJ
"I'm very satisfied with what I've been able to accomplish in these classes." "For me, the discussions made all the difference. They addressed all fears and provided new insights. A perfect approach for fearful but willing adults." "A great combination of psychology and physics for grown-ups who think too much, this approach is nurturing, logical, and fun! —Loretta Casalaina, NJ
Berkeley, CA, Beginning, June 2009, 3 of 3 students:
“It was great! Surpassed my expectations. I am very excited and can’t wait to try my skills in another setting.”
—Lois Nissman
“Great! If you are thinking that maybe you will take it, take it! It is worth the time and money.”
—Tracy Rabold
“The class is great for people who have been afraid of the water, as I have. The slow easy pace is perfect.”
—Max Pringle
Boston, MA, Beginning, June 2009, 7 of 7 students:
“This is a very safe, supportive environment in which to learn and experience your concerns. Ideas are presented in a unique way. The point of view is unique.”
—Karen Schwartz, Lawrenceville, NJ
“The best thing I could have done to become a swimmer. A well thought out approach with a highly skilled instructor: Melon encouraging, supporting, listening, and honoring our emotional reactions to each aspect of gaining confidence and skill.”
—Lorraine Del Col, East Quogue, NY
“It is a unique approach to learning to not be afraid in deep water. It is not as much about swimming as it is about feeling comfortable.”
—Mick Tuohy, Floral Park, NY
“It filled in a piece missing from my childhood. I learned a lot of fun things to do in the water.”
—Lynn Adams, Hackettstown, NJ
“It was excellent! It is well worth the commitment of both a person’s time and money. It is a no fail system.”
—Teresa Campanario-Marchand, Blackstone, MA
“Prior to these classes, I have taken swimming lessons twice without success. MSI’s technique has worked for me.”
—Cathy Bachini, Winthrop, MA
“I can hardly believe my great, good fortune at finding this class which is so aptly named Miracle Swimming. If your fear level is off the Richter Scale, and you think swimming is a dream that will always lie beyond your reach, then Miracle Swimming is for you.”
—Sarah Salerno-Thomas, Hyde Park, MA
Beginning Dallas, TX, May 2009, 5 of 5 students:
“I am really amazed that I can float! I never thought I could and I actually enjoy being in the water more than I thought I would. I have a new outlook towards getting in the pool now and I am so excited about all the possibilities for water activities I can now try out.”
—Jennie Do
“Wonderful class. Learning at your own pace with only adults makes it much more comfortable. Makes you feel at ease.”
—Lucy Cheng
“I feel great about it. Flexible class where everybody goes at his/her own pace.”
—Carlos Tovar
“It really works!”
—Wanjira Barnaby
“Exciting, fun, the best way to face my fears.”
—Lura Hobbs
“I am very happy with the class, and will consider doing the next level to improve my comfort level and skills.”
—Tushar Agarival
Beginning Boston, MA, April 2009, 10 of 10 students:
“Joyful and liberating. 10, 10, 10, 10, 10, 10.”
—Barry Schklair, Cape Elizabeth, ME
“When I’m old and looking back over my life, this class will be high on the list, very high on the list, of most important things I’ve done. This I know with great certainty. And my gratitude is beyond measure. 10, 10, 10, 10, 10, 10.”
—Sarah Salerno-Thomas, Boston, MA
“10,10,10,10,10,10.”
—Michelle Lemp, Boston, MA
“This class changed not only my relationship to water, but also my relationship with my body. The support from the instructor, the spotters and the group provided a web of support to help me transform my relationship to the water. Wherever you are, you have the opportunity to move towards complete freedom in water.”
—Daria Ilunga, NYC
“This class is the only one where the instructor knows what makes it hard to learn to swim and knows what to do about it. Others may acknowledge fear but they don’t know how to deal with it successfully. 10, 10, 11, 10, 10, 11.”
—Steve Gates, Princeton, NJ
“Wonderful class—techniques can be applied to so much more than swimming (slowing down, staying present). 10, 10, 10, 10, 10, 10.”
—Jennifer Burrill, Boston, MA
“It has been as I expected. It’s given me the strength, foundation and excitement to move forward and believe I am a swimmer.”
—Gregory Kennedy, NYC
“Awesome!” and “My happiness? 20/10.”
—Kishore Jadhar, London, KY
Beginning Tampa March 2009, 3 of 3 students:
Great class! Amazing. I learnt in 4 days what I had been trying for years. -Ram Kumar, NC
The class is worth every penny. Do not worry if you read the book and thought, “I don’t want to do this or that”—when the time is right you will want to try those exercises. The reinforcement to go at my own pace, to not feel I had to do every single thing suggested, to let the learning come naturally at its own pace really worked for me.
-Jane Knapp, NJ
Don’t change a thing. One word: ☺ BREAKthrough! Endorphins are popping!!! -Hess Mussallet, West Palm, FL
Beginning Baltimore February 2009, 2 of 2 students:
I feel great and very impressed with the class. There was never any pressure. -Sheba Lewis
I would definitely recommend this class to other non-swimming adults.-Donna Parrish
2008
Berkeley, CA Beginning Class, October 2008, 7 of 7 students:
This was time and money well spend for a lifetime skill
-Lem Oandasan
It has been a life-altering experience. What I have learned goes beyond the pool!
Excellent! Richard is awesome...learning can really be fun!-Charmaine Angelo
Iris Rivera’s ratings: All 10’s.
This program is so easy to learn. This course exceeded my expectations! Excellent program. -John Maresca
Simply a method to conquer fear of the water and other fears in life!!! Techniques for life. Having the spotters was awesome. An extra element of a safe environment.
-Frances Ofosu-Amaah
Amazing! Everyone who has ever had any discomfort should take this class—It’s expensive but worth it.
-Merin Mathew
I’m delighted I took this class. Richard was/is the perfect instructor for it. -Dean Herman
Beginning Class, Jim Montgomery Swim School, Dallas, TX August 2008, 4 of 4 students:
I think people who really want to learn swimming and get rid of fear of water, should take these classes.
-Inik Chang
I would highly recommend it. You make great strides quickly and it’s always fun! -Angelica Garred
I enjoyed this class so much. I always wished I could be comfortable in any water and learning to swim but I never thought I could get it so easily, especially after failing in other classes. I couldn’t wait to get to class and get into the water. The focus on comfort was so different from anything else I’d tried before but it was the key.
—Amy Valdez
I loved this class and want to take the freestyle class. I highly recommend it. -Marjorie Morales
Orlando Beginning Class August 2008, 5 of 5 students:
If a swimming workshop—funshop is on your bucket list you came to the right address. It is a class about how to make dreams/wishes come true. This is not an ordinary swimming class. This is a retreat. This is not a physical experience. It's a spiritual one. I found a new friend: THE WATER! The element I used to adore and admire from afar and which brought a sense of calm which turned into anxiety and fear as I got closer, today wrapped itself around me, hugged me, and became my friend.... ...I thnk I'm falling in love with the water. Melon, in my best dreams, I could not hope for this kind of experience. The only word that comes to my mind is "nirvana."
—Ilana Brietkopf
Good for the body and soul. Just take it! Best money you’ll ever spend. You’ll love the people you meet and the joy of accomplishment. —Vivian McGee
If you ever doubted that you could swim, try Miracle Swimming and dispel that belief.
—Cynthia Wong-Klinek
It increases self confidence through a new sense of competency almost from the beginning of the course.
—Kathleen Ferguson
10, 10, 10, 10, 10, 10 —Dia Zaraga
Beginning Berkeley August 2008, 9 of 9 students:
Excellent! -Jimmei Hu
I had a fabulous time. Fear of the water has plagued me all my life—now I can have fun!
-Margaret Simon
The class was phenomenal! It filled in all of the blanks for me so I could be comfortable in the deep water. What an amazing experience in only four weeks. -Evelyn Goodwin
I am so thankful for this experience -Sandra K. Lee
This class is exactly what I need in getting to know the water and to begin feeling comfortable in the deep end. Even though I wish I knew about this class sooner, I feel that taking this class now is still perfect.
-Tracy Kwok
You can only profit, whether it is inside or outside of pool. -Roland Summer, Germany
Surprisingly, amazingly effective. -David Huang
It has been very helpful and encouraging. I want to continue to keep myself in the water and having fun with it.
-Lucia Kaplan
This class builds an excellent foundation for any water activity. -Russell Rosales
Freestyle Class Moraga July 2008, 8 students:
This has been an incredible experience. There was so much I wanted to say or ask but I knew if I waited you’d address my questions and you did. It was an amazing experience. I would encourage every beginner to set their goals to include a freestyle class, as it brings everything together and builds the confidence to want to swim anywhere. Melon, Thank you so much for having the passion for swimming and for giving it to so many others. I’m eternally grateful and wish to share it with others too. - Connie Ray
If you want swimming to be a serious part of your life, just take the class.
My experience of the freestyle class also was excellent, although I do feel tired. Choosing to take the class at the last moment was the right choice.. -Jan Bottorff
Outstanding, amazing, life-changing, perfectly tailored and presented for its audience. Overall highest, highest marks. It’s literally been a revelation and transformation for me and not just regarding swimming and water. Even if you “think” you can swim, take this class. It is a mind shifting experience. -Greg Wellons
I can’t believe it! Do it! You may not believe it but it CAN happen. Must not work during the week of class!
-
Angel Tremble
This has been a wonderful experience. I gave myself time and permission to experience and digest putting freestyle together. I got what I came for and more. A very satisfying, stirring, idea provoking, experience. -June Carrin
Incredible, amazing, awesome, freeing! Stop wasting your time ‘considering’… Just do it!! You’ll be as happy as I am right now. -Cristina Torres
Berkeley Next Step July 2008, 8 students:
Great class; the greatest Ahah! -Don Cortezano
I treasured being able to take the class at my own pace. Well worth the time and money. -Denise Leo
In order to feel free and safe in water it is essential to take these next steps. -Lavonne Walton
Much more comfortable in the deep, knowing that the water holds me up and I can always come up for air.
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Mainak Banerjee
Don’t quit before the miracle(s) happen! They just keep happening and happening the more you experience this! I really feel like I’ve internalized this beyond my swimming. -Greg Wellons
If you have even the slightest apprehension or fear in the water, this class will transform you!
-Joseph Cochrane
Loved it! I wish it was the full 8 sessions as I still have work to do. -Marjorie Cango
I value the values, methods, perpective and psychological focus and I recommend it to others who have fears about H2O. -Darlene Hall
Beginning Class, Dallas TX: Jim Montgomery Swim, licensed MSI instructors June 2008,
5 students:
It rocked my world. There are so many “Eureka” moments that I can’t even count them—realizing that it was OK for me to float almost vertically even though one of my classmates’ back float exposed her toes, learning to recognize it when my mind was not present in my body, etc. Even though I’m nowhere near a freestyle swimmer, I now have confidence in my back float and my ability of get from front float to back float. That has been huge for me. The teaching team in Dallas was great. They had terrific senses of humor, and really were able to make it fun. I’m hoping I’ll get a chance to travel back to Dallas to repeat the Beginning II class soon. -Carole Harber
Very good. I feel I have learnt a lot. I didn’t think I would be so comfortable putting my face in water.
I’ve learned so much—I came in fearing putting my face in the water and I can now do so much—I had taken lessons previously, but came away with less than I have learned in one hour here. -No Name
If you are an adult and not able to swim this is the class to take. I started out thinking I was not afraid of water realizing later that was my true diagnosis. -Angie Welch
Life-transforming. Unlike any other method. I can apply so many things I learned here to other areas of life. For anyone with fear, there is just no other way to learn but slow, without skipping steps. I read the book before my first class, but there is no way I could apply all of that without constant repetition, instruction and support from instructors and fellow students who “understand fear”. -Loretta Tubbs
I feel that this class has helped me overcome my fear of the water. This class is great because it is at your own pace and stresses being comfortable. -Allicia Merritt
Glenwood Springs Beginning and Next Step May 2008, mid-class comments:
In the deep water, after several attempts to back float away from the wall, I was able to float away and stay focused then reverse direction and slowly “swim” back. This really felt good – an accomplishment. -Dick Friesen
I am doing things I never thought possible—and I am comfortable and happy. Real progress in just a few sessions. Amazing comfort/amazing progress. Yea! I am amazed at how comfortable I have felt all week; I felt more comfortable immediately. 40+ years of fear, gone in less than one week. That is amazing. -DJ
I was able to remain calm while back floating, doing reversal, and then front floating next to the wall in deep end. What a great surprise! I never thought I’d enjoy diving head first toward the bottom of the pool, but I did.
-Val Friesen
Finally conquered the back float. Just making my mind up to slow down, go to the wading pool, not worrying about the others were doing made the difference. I even learned the recovery, once again by slowing it down and letting it happen, instead of forcing it. -Wayne Dufault
After years of not swimming, I have lots to work on. Being kind to myself has been a must so far in this class. Despite my frustration at not learning some skills as quickly I’d hoped. I have done more and became more comfortable than ever before. Patience with myself is something this class demands and something I am learning for myself. I learned to float on day 3 and it was a huge moment. Listening to my body is still new and every second I learn as I pay closer and closer attention.
-Loretta
I can use my skills – back float, front float, propelling – in deep water with little or no difference than in shallow. How much “fun” deep water can be! I no longer think of “how deep” the water is. Frustrated with not being able to get to bottom: too much buoyancy? (body fat!) (THIS STATEMENT WOULD HAVE BEEN LAUGHABLE 6 MONTHS AGO!!!)
-Jo Anne Yaremko
With my new goggles on, I’ve been watching the dreaded bottom in the deep end. But nobody’s down there; not even close! It’s a lot of useless space where nobody goes! All the swimmers are up on top, same as me, and they are not struggling one bit to stay there. I’m beginning to believe the bottom is irrelevant. It’s losing its power!!
-Marilyn Montoya
Next Step Glenwood Springs May 2008, 7 students:
If you want to continue to feel comfortable in water (shallow or deep), this is the class that will get you there!
-JoAnne Yaremko
It works. Looked for 20 years and finally found the answers I needed. Repeat this in the right voice: “Stay in your body and it will come.”--Field of Dreams. -Berta Robinson
Just do it -Michael Johannes
Trust yourself to take the class. It is such a worthy investment. It allowed me to get to a point where I could have (for the first time) fun in the water with my kids. That in itself was worth every penny. In my 5 year old’s words: “Mom, it was amazing!” after an afternoon in the water. -Ana Campos
Thankful it’s out there. True blessing. It’s the way to learn swimming and you can apply the method to any other fears one is trying to conquer. -Janet Jove
It changed my life.
-Marilyn Montoya
No matter where you are on your journey to freedom in the water there are so many tools available to help you get there—Next Step helps you by making the tools so much easier to use. -Nina Solo
2007
Beginning Berkeley November 2007, 6 students:
This class has opened up a whole new world to me-physically, emotionally and spiritually. This class is the best thing since chocolate. I couldn't have hoped for a better instructor. I would tell someone who is afraid of the water that they can't NOT take this class. Even though its expensive, if you can somehow swing the cost, it works. —D.E.
Simply one of the best experiences of my life. —Joseph C.
This class has been amazing and I plan to continue with further sessions. Although I still have a long way to go, I am more comfortable in water than I have ever been. —Traci H.
Definitely well worth the time and money. —Denise L.
This is an excellent class for any adult who really wants to be comfortable in the water. —Mary Elyn B.
Would recommend this class to anyone afraid in water. Never thought I would ever make the progress I've made. —Angie S.
Comments from Every Class Member of the November, 2007 Palm Springs, CA Class
My whole life I have been taught to ignore fears and concerns. I lost the ability to listen to my sixth sense. This class introduced the steps necessary to reconnect my sixth sense as I begin once again to trust what I feel, sense, and experience. Ana C., So. California
This approach to swimming is the only way to go. We all think we'll be the exception and not be able to swim. But it's a real breakthrough and truly works because it focuses on the mind-body connection. For every trime I got stuck, there was an inevitable victory.—Catherine R., Sedona, AZ
It's amazing. You have no idea what you've done for me. John B., Idaho
Mind blowing opportunity to change the way I respond to my physical world. Keith W., San Francisco
I rate my happiness with this class at 10 out of 10. What worked especially well for me was "no pressure."
— Carol S., TX
Take it. If you really want to enjoy water, take it. — Nancy V., Palm Desert, CA
The class is so well thought-out. Words are inadequate! Stop thinking about it and do it! —Berta R., Denver, CO
This class is truly a miracle class. Try it! It's definitely worth it. —Janet J., So. Cal.
Beginning Berkeley September 2007, mid-class comments:
I actually feel like I am beginning to feel like I trust the water. I also was excited to unfloat from the back float – I am excited to come each session now. -Cathy Sisneros Chung
For the first time in my life (I am 45 years old), I enjoyed being in the water. I actually had fun in the water. I was disappointed that our time in the pool was over. Before this class, I never thought I could have fun in the pool. Now I know I can and will. -Stephen Han
First time in the deep end of the pool without being frantic. -Mainak Banerjee
Today I dived to pick up a toy and tried to sit on the bottom, what fun. I also did a sommersault! I never thought I could do that. It’s been a fun class so far especially today. -Stephen Han
Beginning Berkeley September 2007, 6 students:
I wish I knew about this class long ago. I wasted so much time and money trying to learn to swim the “normal” way. I am so amazed how much I learned in two short weeks. -Stephen Han
The first session convinced me that it was going to work. So that was critical. First time in the deep end of the pool without being frantic. -Mainak Banerjee
Definitely worth taking. I’ve learned more than I thought I would in two weeks. -Ben Adley
All things should be taught this way. -Jim Bulgatz
Learning in a slow paced environment and remaining in your body was very effective. -Carmel Keane
Comments from Every Class Member of the August, 2007 Berkeley, CA Class
(eight students):
"I love, love, love the class. I've already referred people to it. Perfect size of 10 max students ."
— Mary Hau, San Francisco
"A must-do." — Sheila Page, Oakland, CA
"I feel great that I took this class. I would highly recommend it especially to people who are scared of water. The spotter helped me float and it was incredible and that was the beginning of the miracle."
— Louella Wilson, Concord, CA
"10++++++. Nothing else could have worked for me, as far as I believe. It's been a life-changing and enhancing experience for me. It far transcends swimming, although that, alone would have been more than worth it. I learned so much about myself, my ego, my capabilities, what blocks me, etc. It was worth every penny I spent and then some. I went far beyond what I thought possible." —Greg Wellons, San Francisco
"It was excellent. I'm ready to take more classes. Already signed up for Next Step and looking forward to Freestyle." —John Bibby, Oakland, CA
"It was miraculous. I was able to do things like floating and swimming in the deep end that I thought I would never do." —Grande Lum, Oakland, CA
"This class has changed my life. I've received and learned more than I ever thought possible. I'm very happy and thankful." —Fred Gapasin, San Francisco
"Fears dissolved one by one. A new world has completely opened up. Truly transformational and more fun than I could ever imagine." —Herdis Pelle, Oakland, CA
Beginning Berkeley July 2007, Email Exchange:
I can’t tell you how relieved, astonished, happy, grateful, empowered, excited, triumphant (there are probably more adjectives but that’s a good sample) I feel. I went from being very nervous about walking across the shallowest part of the shallow end on the first day, to repeatedly diving head-first into the deep end on the last day. I think even [the instructor] was surprised at my transformation.
It seems that for me the big obstacle that loomed in my path was the fear surrounding the idea of floating free face-down without anything within my grasp. The first time I accomplished a front float and returned to my feet on my own and realized I was “okay”, I was so overcome by the milestone it represented that I burst into tears—and I’m not a “crier”! After that, everything else was easy by comparison. Before the class, there was never a distinction for me between shallow water and deep water—it was all water, all dangerous. So once shallow water wasn’t dangerous, deep water wasn’t either. For the first time in my life, I’m "ahead" of some swimmers: the ones who are fine in shallow water but afraid in deep water.
Thank you for this class, and for having a website so that I could find it when I decided it was “time” to finally do something about my fear. That fear I *used to* have! I’m not afraid anymore.
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Denise Howard
Comments from Every Class Member of the July, 2007 Berkeley, CA Class
(eight students)
"Well worth the time and investment no matter how far you progress within the class time. The point is you take it at your own pace." —Denise Leo
"It's amazingly effective." —Helen Morgan
"Great class. Highly recommended!" —Grace Chang
"Very positive, indeed. I would encourage all fearful non-swimming adults to take the class. But I would encourage TSI to look closely at each student's ability and advise them very closely on which class to take." —Barbara Lane
"Class was great. Want to swim? Take this class. You will." —David Atkin
I learned that the water supports me. Going slowly, doing what's fun, getting instruction, and it all comes together. Richard and Deborah are excellent." —Linda Brannan
"I came in skeptical and apprehensive along with my fear of the water, itself. I've come away astounded, and accomplishing things that I couldn't even imagine before, without any fear at all. It seems too good to be true, but it is true! —Denise Howard
"Rate my happiness with TSI's class? 9 out of 10." —Cyndi Chaw
Comments from Every Class Member of the June, 2007 Glenwood Springs, CO Next Step Class
Many thanks to both instructors. You both have helped my dream to swim come true. —Grace E.
...I think this is the only way I couldn't overcome my fear of water. I'm exremely grateful to Melon for developing and perfecting this program. I would highly recommend it. —Ana O.
I feel this class along with the others has enriced my life in many different ways. My confidence and self esteem have improved and I feel like I can do anything I set my mind to. —Nina S.
No one should go through life without this class. —Carson B.
I would suggest that for those who have tried everything and given up hope, there is one more approach to try-- and it works! Gene S.
This doesn't work for me. I don't understand it. Don D.
Comments from Every Class Member of the May, 2007 Berkeley, CA Class
(eight students):
"I felt the class was wonderful." —Vickie, Singapore
"I have shared my experience of this Beginning class with many people—and much to my surprise, many of these are non-swimming adults that have never let their fears be known. I can't wait for the next class, but will have to. " — Gaye Foss
"I loved the class and learned a lot. " — Corrie Bowe
"The instructor makes all the difference in how I learn. He is perfect for this and he was once one of us. He relates to the feeling of being fearful and needing to take steps at our own pace." —Nicole Acker
"I'm glad I finally had a chance to experience this class. If you are uncomfortable in any way in the water then you will never be able to experience the freedom you can have: the knowledge of your body's buoyancy and idea of staying in your body. I liked the fact that I could really go at my own pace. In doing so, it allowed me to learn more than I ever have in swimming lessons. " —LaShonda Jackson
"I was very happy: no pressure. I liked the class. It is the first time I have been in the deep end. " —Ahmad Hadi
"I'm very happy with the class. I feel silly I didn't take it long ago." —Jan Bottorf
This class allowed me to learn to be comfortable in water. It taught me the basics which I never got in other classes. " —Anonymous
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