Breaststroke kick with kickboard while head down

 

The breaststroke kick with a kickboard while keeping your head down is a fundamental drill in swimming that helps develop proper kicking technique and body position.

Here’s how you can perform it:

Equipment Needed:

Kickboard: This is a buoyant board that you hold onto while kicking to keep your upper body afloat.

Goggles: It’s essential to wear goggles to protect your eyes while swimming.

Body Position:

Hold the kickboard out in front of you with both hands, keeping your arms straight. Lower your head so that your face is submerged in the water, with your chin tucked in slightly towards your chest.

Kick Technique:

Start with your legs together and toes pointed. Bend your knees slightly and turn your feet outward, forming a “frog-like” position with your legs. Execute the breaststroke kick by simultaneously pushing your feet outward and downward in a circular motion. Keep your kicks smooth and rhythmic, focusing on generating propulsion while maintaining control.

Breathing:

Since your head is down in this drill, you won’t be taking regular breaths. Focus on exhaling steadily through your nose while your face is submerged.

Drill Execution:

Begin kicking gently, focusing on maintaining a steady rhythm. Keep your head down and eyes looking towards the bottom of the pool. Continue kicking with the kickboard while maintaining a streamlined body position.

Repeat the drill for several lengths of the pool, gradually increasing your distance as your technique improves. Practice regularly to build strength and endurance in your legs and to reinforce proper breaststroke kick mechanics. Remember, consistency and attention to detail are essential when practicing swimming drills. By focusing on maintaining proper form and technique, you’ll improve your breaststroke kick and overall swimming performance.