After developing a streamlined body position, kicking is the second step to build a swim stroke. Kicking provides propulsion and balance support and is critical during arm recovery in back crawl. Swimmers need to know how to float and glide in a streamlined body position before attempting kick drills for swimming strokes.
For a back crawl the kick used is the flutter kick. Your flutter kick should be generated from your hip, with a straight but relaxed knee, a relaxed ankle, and pointed toes. Toes should pass each other very closely on each kick with consistent rhythmic flow. The most common mistake with the flutter kick is to generate your kick from your knees. Feet should be coming right to the surface of the water. If you find that your feet or calves cramp frequently when you swim, you may be pointing your toes too hard. Try relaxing your ankle and foot.
Check out Backstroke Body Position Swim Tip
Practice maintaining relaxed breathing while kicking. Make sure that you are not holding your breath as you practice your kick.
By Jason Britton and Alex Lee
Jason is a full-time Lifeguard/Instructor here at MacEwan University Sport and Wellness. He has over 19 years of aquatic and coaching experience and is one of the main organizers of SwimRun Edmonton.
Alex is a certified Swim for Life and Lifesaving Instructor with the Lifesaving Society. He is a Junior Griffins Aquatic Camp Counselor and has developed the water safety education programming used in the Jr. Griffins Aquatics Camps.
