Abstract: A floatation aid is provided which is especially useful for swimming instruction and which includes a harness and two floatation devices. In an exemplary embodiment the floatation devices are positioned over the chest and the lower back of a person. The floatation aid can support a person's body in a horizontal position while in the water, without impeding movement of the person's limbs or torso. The floatation aid can include adjustable fasteners and pockets to allow for addition and removal of multiple buoyant pads to obtain a desired level of floatation.