How-to: Freestyle stroke technique video tips by Speedo

Want to become faster and more efficient in the pool? From hand positioning to arm placement, this freestyle stroke video covers the key elements you need to improve your freestyle stroke technique and get Speedo Fit, complete with tips from Speedo's elite swimming coach.

Freestyle/Front Crawl Stroke Technique and Tips

Learn how to improve your stroke technique for a faster, more efficient swim.

Beginning the stroke

At the front of the stroke, gently place your hand into the water, entering with your fingertips first. Your palm should face the bottom of the pool, with your wrists slightly higher than your fingertips, and your elbow higher than your wrist.

The Freestyle Pull Stroke

Continue to keep your elbow high as your arm enters the water, and you start to pull down through the stroke.

Press down with your forearm, and try to hold as much water as possible. This is known as the 'catch' position.

As you hold the water with one hand, your other hand recovers out of the water.

When pulling, point your fingers directly towards the bottom of the pool, and keep your elbow positioned high. You should pull your body past your arm.

Try to bring your pull, the phase where your hand is pulling down against the water, underneath your body.

Keep your arm and hand beneath your body rather than out to the side as you pull through the stroke.

The Freestyle Stroke exit and recovery

Extend the arm at the back of the stroke, pushing backwards as your hand exits the water.

Continue to bend your arm through the stroke, straightening it slightly as it exits the water. As your arm exits the water, bend your elbow, keeping it high towards the ceiling.

Lead the recovery with your shoulder to keep your arm relaxed. Then extend your forearm to enter the water at the front of the stroke.

Power paddles or finger paddles can be used to help you focus on improving the positioning of your hands as they enter the water.

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Read the original article from the Speedo swim blog here.