Freestyle 101

The Wave helps you establish a good body position for backstroke.  Start by kicking gently on your back, with one arm extended and one arm at your side.  Tilt the body slightly toward the extended arm, so that a little bit of your trailing arm is above water.

When you feel comfortable in the tilt position, lift your trailing arm out of the water...and then gently return it to your side.  

Repeat this sequence as you kick gently down the pool.  Lift the trailing arm...and let it fall gently back into the water.   As you lift the arm, keep the elbow straight and lift the hand STRAIGHT UP toward the ceiling. 

If you’re a triathlete and have heavy legs, or if you’re not a natural kicker, you might be able to lift the arm just a few inches above the surface.  That’s OK.  Just keep your kick steady and keep the arm relaxed but straight as you lift...and return the arm to the water.

If you have a strong, productive kick, try to lift the arm a little higher...so that the hand is pointing straight up to the ceiling or sky.  Keep your movements relaxed and steady.

Switch arms on each new length, until you feel comfortable doing The Wave on both sides.   

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The Wave