Backstroke

Gordan Kozulj Croatia backstroke EC

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Backstroke up

BackstrokeSwimming

Backstroke

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Backstroke is a swimming stroke characterized by the swimmer lying on their back and propelling themselves through the water with alternating arm movements and a flutter kick. Unlike other strokes, backstroke starts from the water as swimmers push off from the wall on their back. It is one of the four swimming strokes used in competitive swimming, alongside the freestyle, breaststroke, and butterfly stroke.

History

The backstroke has evolved significantly since its first introduction into competitive swimming. Initially, swimmers used a rudimentary backstroke technique, but over time, the stroke has been refined to increase speed and efficiency. The introduction of the flip turn, also known as the tumble turn, marked a significant advancement in the technique, allowing swimmers to maintain momentum while turning at the wall.

Technique

The backstroke technique involves several key components:

• Body Position: The swimmer's body lies flat on the water surface, maintaining a horizontal position. The head is kept in line with the spine, and the eyes look straight up.
• Arm Movement: Arms move in a windmill motion, alternating between each arm. One arm sweeps through the water from the hip to the hand entry above the head, while the other arm recovers above water.
• Leg Kick: The flutter kick is used, with legs kicking alternately. The kick originates from the hips, with minimal bending at the knees.
• Breathing: Since the swimmer's face is above water, breathing can be regular and not timed to the strokes as in other swimming styles.

Competitive Swimming

In competitive swimming, backstroke races are conducted over distances of 50 meters (only in some competitions), 100 meters, and 200 meters. Swimmers must remain on their backs throughout the race, except when executing a turn, where they are allowed to turn to their belly to perform a flip turn. The start of the backstroke race is unique, as swimmers start from inside the water, holding onto the pool wall or a starting handle.

Training and Techniques

Training for backstroke emphasizes developing a strong kick, improving arm stroke efficiency, and mastering the backstroke start and flip turns. Drills often focus on isolating specific parts of the stroke to refine technique, such as one-arm backstroke for arm movement and kickboard drills for leg strength.

Notable Backstrokers

Several swimmers have distinguished themselves in backstroke at international competitions, setting world records and winning multiple medals. Notable backstrokers include Missy Franklin, who has won multiple Olympic gold medals in backstroke, and Ryan Murphy, known for his backstroke world records.

See Also

• Swimming (sport)
• List of swimming styles
• Freestyle swimming
• Breaststroke
• Butterfly stroke