Swim Direct Blog

As a competitive swimmer you may already know how to perform the backstroke; however there are certain technique points that should be mentioned regarding the backstroke to make sure your mind is geared towards getting the best speed, and using the least amount of energy to do so.

The backstroke is very simple in movements with the arm cycles pulling you through the water and your legs giving you the propulsion to move. With the backstroke the main force of movement is the leg kicks, therefore you need to make sure you are kicking with the feet, with the maximum amount of energy. You don’t want to kick above the surface; instead your feet should be kicking below the water. Most novices make the mistake of kicking the air. In the same token you don’t want your leg kick to be too deep.

The head position is also very important. Since you are on your back for the backstroke you have to use your body to guide you through the water in a straight line; therefore you need to have your head in line with your body and just above the surface. The head should never be out of the water completely.