As you teach and coach backstroke…and even as you SWIM backstroke…it helps to have just a few basic things to focus on.  And the simpler the better.  

**#1:**  Keep the head steady.

**#2:**  Use a steady 6-beat kick with legs up.

**#3:**  Hand entry should be clean, deep, and driven by the shoulder and torso.

**#4:**  Push water toward the feet.

**#5:**  Engage and Squeeze the Lats.

**#6:**  Hand exit should be clean, quick, and driven by the hips

**#7:**  Keep the recovery easy and relaxed 

When all these focus points come together, the swimmer seems to be flowing through the water – swimming with her entire body, not just her arms and legs.

As you work through the video – either as a swimmer or coach – be patient with the learning process.

Take it one step at a time, realize you will need to repeat these teaching progressions and stroke drills over the course of several lessons and sessions.

Always have a basic progression in mind when you begin a lesson.  Know where you’re trying to go in terms of correct technique, then follow the steps to get there.

Believe in yourself and the process, ad you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to turn ANY swimmer into a backstroker

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Backstroke Focus Points