Last month we discussed the concept of the skroke pyramid: the order in which stroke progressions should be implemented when learning and correcting a swimmer’s strokes. To review, the first step is body positioning: being able to maintain a relaxed, streamlined body position will enable you as a swimmer to move efficiently through the water. The second step of the pyramid which we discussed last month is kicking. Mastering a relaxed flutter kick which is generated from the hips will prevent injury and add to the efficiency of your freestyle stroke.

Check out Flutter Kick Swim Tip

The third step of the pyramid is breathing. Breathing is one of the hardest aspects to swimming. Due to your face being predominantly underwater, breathing is required to be controlled and rhythmic in order to fit into the motion. Exhale underwater, then turn your head to the side as your opposite arm is fully extend in front of your body. Allow your head to roll back into position as your shoulders roll. The idea is to minimize the movement as much as possible so as to limit the break to body position. Eventually you may be able to ge to the point where you only need to turn so that just your mouth is out of the water, with one eye still underwater.

It is largely recommended that you breath in a rhythmic pattern, every three or four strokes. In practice, this is a good drill for promoting balance in stroke technique. However, in a situation where you are trying to swim fast, you may need to breathe more often. Breathing every two strokes to a favorite side may in fact be preferable for you.By Jason Britton and Victoria Mitchell

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.

Victoria is a Lifesaving Society Swim Trainer and Red Cross Water Safety Instructor Trainer. She is also MacEwan University’s full-time Aquatic Programmer.