The 5 Most Common Freestyle Swimming Mistakes

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. - March 30, 2023 - PRLog -- Freestyle swimming is one of the most popular and widely practiced swimming techniques. However, even experienced swimmers can make mistakes that can hinder their performance and potentially cause injury. In this article, we will discuss the five most common freestyle mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Incorrect Body Positioning

This mistake can slow you down and cause fatigue. Ideally, your body should be parallel to the surface of the water, and your head should be in line with your spine. Your hips should be at the surface, and your legs should be extended with your toes pointed.

To correct this mistake, focus on maintaining proper body alignment. Keep your head down, eyes facing forward, and your core engaged. Use your hips to drive your legs and propel yourself forward.

2. Poor Breathing Technique

Breathing is an essential part of freestyle swimming, and poor breathing technique can be a major obstacle to your performance. Holding your breath can cause fatigue and make you more prone to cramping.

To correct this mistake, try to establish a regular breathing pattern. Breathe in through your mouth, turning your head to the side to inhale. As you exhale, blow out through your nose or mouth.

3. Overreaching

Overreaching is a common mistake in freestyle swimming that can slow you down and cause injury. Overreaching is when you stretch your arms too far forward when entering the water.

To avoid overreaching, focus on a more relaxed, natural arm movement. A bent elbow action allows the hand to arrive in time to begin the next stroke providing forward momentum. If the hand and arm come forward and slam into the water you lose momentum in the form of drag

4. Ineffective Kick

A strong kick is an important part of freestyle swimming, but many swimmers neglect this aspect of their technique. An ineffective kick can cause you to lose momentum and tire more quickly.

To improve your kick, focus on using your hips to generate power. Keep your legs straight and pointed and use a flutter kick to propel yourself forward. Doing sets with the correct swim fins is a great way to perfect your flutter kick.

5. Poor Timing

Timing is essential in freestyle swimming, and poor timing can lead to inefficient strokes and slower times. Poor timing can result from overreaching, poor breathing technique, or a weak kick.

To improve your timing, focus on synchronizing your arm and leg movements. Your arms should pull through the water as your legs kick, creating a smooth, fluid motion.

In conclusion, freestyle swimming is a popular and effective swimming technique, but it is essential to avoid common mistakes that can hinder your performance.

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