Breaststroke

Phelps 400m IM Missouri GP 2008 retouched

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Breaststroke

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Breaststroke2

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Breaststroke3

Hoff 400m IM Missouri GP 2008 b cropped

Breaststroke is a swimming stroke that is swum on the chest, with the torso stationary and minimal rotation. It is one of the four swimming strokes used in competitive swimming, alongside the freestyle, backstroke, and butterfly stroke. The breaststroke is distinguished by its unique arm and leg movements, which occur in a simultaneous, symmetrical manner. This stroke is known for its technical precision and the timing required to perform it efficiently.

History

The origins of the breaststroke can be traced back to the Stone Age, making it the oldest of the competitive swimming strokes. Early depictions and descriptions suggest that human beings used a form of breaststroke to swim across rivers and lakes. The stroke has evolved significantly over the centuries, with major changes in technique occurring during the 20th century, which led to faster swimming times and new competitive standards.

Technique

The breaststroke consists of three main parts: the pull, the kick, and the glide. Each phase must be executed in harmony to maintain speed and efficiency in the water.

Pull

The pull phase begins with the swimmer's arms extended straight forward. The hands then sweep outwards and slightly downwards in a circular motion, ending with the hands pushing back towards the hips. This motion helps to propel the swimmer forward.

Kick

The kick, often referred to as the "frog kick," involves the swimmer's legs bending at the knees and then extending outward and backward. This movement provides additional propulsion and helps to maintain the swimmer's balance in the water.

Glide

After the pull and kick, the swimmer extends their arms forward and brings their legs together, assuming a streamlined position. This glide phase is crucial for maintaining momentum and preparing for the next stroke cycle.

Rules

In competitive swimming, breaststroke has specific rules that govern how the stroke must be performed. Swimmers must keep their body on their breast throughout the race; alternating movements of the arms and legs are required, and the hands must be pushed forward together from the breast on, under, or over the water. Turns and finishes require both hands to touch the wall simultaneously in the same horizontal plane.

Training and Technique Improvement

Improving breaststroke technique involves focused training on each part of the stroke, particularly the coordination of the pull, kick, and glide. Swimmers often use drills to isolate and improve specific aspects of their stroke, such as kick efficiency or arm movement precision.

In Competitive Swimming

Breaststroke is one of the strokes swum in medley events, both individually and in relays. It is the second stroke swum in the individual medley and the first in the medley relay. Due to its technical nature, mastering the breaststroke can be challenging but is essential for competitive swimmers who participate in medley events.