Backstroke Clinic

Craig Nieuwstad

Backstroke Clinic

 

Why Backstroke?

  • National Pride
  • Good substitute for aerobic training
  • More important in Medley as you get older

 

Key Factors in Backstroke:

1. Head & Body Position

 

2. Kick

 

3. The Arm Stroke 

 

4. Rotation

 

Summary:

Head & Body Position:

  • Head position = relaxed, slightly tilted forward with an extended neck
  • Body position = rounded back with hips at the surface

Kick:

  • Down kick = straight leg / Up kick = bends to set up kick

Arm Stroke:

  • Early, shallow catch, always pushing the water backwards

Rotation:

  • Fast & tight, using a dynamic combination of the entry & finish