Backstroke Pointers

Humans are land-based, vertical mammals. So asking a swimmer to get wet, go horizontal, upside down, and then swim backwards? Well heck, no wonder backstroke sets can set some swimmers groaning.

Here are a few ideas that might cultivate a bit more enjoyment for swimming backwards and upside down.

Horizontal is Best

The biggest issue most coaches see is the lack of horizontal body position. Start with the swimmers’ head positions first and ensure sure they’re looking up at the sky or ceiling instead of at the coach standing on deck. Their chins should not be tucked on their chests.

A quick test of correct position is to have the swimmers make an L shape with their thumbs and forefingers. Then they place the finger under the chin and the thumb in the indentation between the collarbones. This is a general guide for correct head position. A good practice drill is to have your swimmers hold that L in place and just kick, so they can concentrate solely on head position.

Ear and Head Movement

Most swimmers do not have their heads back in the water enough. Their ears should be IN the water and their heads still. There should be no rocking back and forth as the arms churn through the water.

Keep Moving

Though the head remains still, the arms do need to move and they need to move in a continuous motion, like windmill blades going round and round. They should not pause between the pull phase and the recovery phase of each arm.

Rotation

Backstroke is a long-axis stroke and rotation of the shoulders and core is crucial to an efficient stroke. Shoulders need to rotate out of the water with hand entry—generally at 11 and 1 on the clock, with pinkies entering first. Most swimmers that have problems with backstroke tend to swim flat in the water. Adding a bit of rotation can make a world of difference. The key is just a slight rotation—something along the lines of 45 degrees.

Kick

Toes should be pointed slightly in and they should flick water up AND down. Instruct them to “boil the water,” so the water bubbles up over the water line, but not their entire foot. The kick drives from the hip and only a slight bend of the knees is needed.