Choreography vs Coaching: How Do You Teach?

Ever wondered why one fitness class feels like an effortless dance and another leaves you splashing in confusion? In this deep dive, we explore how teaching styles in aquatic fitness shape everything — from the joy of feeling perfectly in sync to the frustration of splashing off-beat. We break down the two dominant approaches: choreography-driven classes, where energy, music, and movement come together like a water dance party, and coaching-based methods, like S’WET™ (Structured Water Exercise Training), which prioritize skill-building, adaptability, and personal progress.

You’ll discover the strengths and challenges of each style, the hidden pressures instructors face, and how participants’ experiences can shift dramatically depending on the method. Whether you crave the buzz of choreography or the empowerment of coaching, this episode will help you understand what works best for your fitness journey — and why the how of teaching is just as important as the workout itself.