Freestyle

By Shawn P. Ford
3/13/2023

Freestyle is the most popular and commonly used stroke in swimming. It's the foundation of swimming, and mastering the freestyle technique is essential for any swimmer. In this article, we'll break down the perfect freestyle technique, step-by-step.

  1. Body position

The first and most crucial step in the freestyle technique is maintaining the correct body position. Your body should be horizontal and streamlined with your head in a neutral position. Your hips should be at the surface of the water, and your legs should be close together with pointed toes.

  1. Arm movement

The next step is to focus on your arm movement. Your arms should enter the water shoulder-width apart, with your fingertips pointed down. Your arms should then reach forward and extend fully before pulling back towards your hips. Your elbows should stay high throughout the pull, and your hand should push the water towards your feet.

  1. Breathing

Breathing is an important aspect of the freestyle technique. As your hand pulls back towards your hips, turn your head to the side and take a breath. Your mouth should be slightly open, and your chin should be close to your shoulder. Exhale forcefully into the water to clear your lungs, and turn your head back to center as your hand enters the water.

  1. Leg movement

Your leg movement should complement your arm movement. As your arm pulls back, your opposite leg should kick down towards your feet. Your toes should be pointed, and your knee should be slightly bent. Your other leg should be straight and streamlined.

  1. Rhythm and timing

The final step in the freestyle technique is to find a rhythm and timing that works for you. Your arm and leg movements should be coordinated, and your breathing should be in sync with your stroke. Aim for a smooth, efficient stroke that allows you to maintain your speed and momentum.

Tips for improving your freestyle technique:

  • Practice your body position and streamline regularly.
  • Focus on keeping your arms high and pulling back towards your hips.
  • Practice bilateral breathing (breathing on both sides) to improve your symmetry and balance.
  • Experiment with different breathing patterns and find what works best for you.
  • Incorporate drills into your training, such as kickboard drills or one-arm freestyle.

In conclusion, mastering the freestyle technique is essential for any swimmer looking to improve their skills and performance. By focusing on your body position, arm movement, breathing, leg movement, and rhythm and timing, you can perfect your freestyle stroke and become a more efficient and effective swimmer. Remember to practice regularly and incorporate drills into your training to continue improving your technique.