Breaststroke is a swimming style in which the swimmer is on their chest and the torso does not rotate. It is the most popular recreational style due to the swimmer’s head being out of the water a large portion of the time, and that it can be swum comfortably at slow speeds.

The kick is sometimes referred to as a “frog kick” because of the resemblance to the movement of a frog’s hind legs; however, when done correctly it is more of a “whip kick” due to the whip-like motion that moves starting at the core down through the legs.

Improving your breaststroke technique

To ensure you are squeezing the most out of your time in the pool here are a few advanced tips for improving your breaststroke technique.

In the water

• To improve your breaststroke technique your body position should be with your head facing forward in line with your body.
• Keep your shoulders, hips and legs as horizontal as possible but slope your body slightly to allow the leg kick to stay beneath the water.
• The leg kick uses your core and abdomen muscles more than freestyle so it’s important to not to let your hips drop in the water. Your legs should be behind you rather than below you.
• Try to keep your neck and shoulders as relaxed as possible to aid the arm action and reduce strain. Look downwards as you glide to avoid straining your neck.