tread water in German
tread water in German
Wasser treten
To remain afloat in the water without use of any buoyancy aid, by using kicking motions and hand motions.
auf der Stelle treten
(figuratively) To make no progress, expending effort just enough to maintain a stable position.
sich im Kreis drehen
(figuratively) To make no progress, expending effort just enough to maintain a stable position.