FREESTYLE

The freestyle stroke, as it's name indicates, is not determined by any particular method. The stroke we now call freestyle, which is also known as the front crawl or Australian crawl, has been used since 1900’s. Some believe that the freestyle stroke was created by Richard Cavill, an Australian who combined the overarm stroke with the up and down kick motion.

Front crawl is the fastest stroke compared to other swimming strokes and gives you the sensation of being powerful in the water. It is often hard to get the hang up at first because fitting in the breath can be difficult.

Below, we detail the stroke guidance and video to make you apprehend this stroke. You can also practice it at your own place.

Freestyle Guidance

STEP ONE

Swim with all of your body near to the surface of the water, keep your hips and legs behind your shoulders. Imagine you are trying to swim through a narrow tube without touching the sides. A good way of doing this is to put your face in the water and keep your legs kicking all of the time.

STEP TWO

Try to use long fast kicks, make sure all of your legs are moving up and down. Your knees should curve a little bit and your feet should make a small splash. Try counting to six quickly and kicking your legs in time with this.

Freestyle

STEP THREE

Your arms supply the power for the stroke, so one arm should follow the other through the water and over the top. Try putting your hand into the water in front of your head and elongate it forwards as far as it will go, slice it into the water with your thumb first - the less splash the better.

STEP FOUR

Increase your speed by bending your elbow and pushing your hand towards your feet, keep it going until it reaches the top of your leg. Lift your arm out of the water and try to control it as it goes back to the starting point.

Freestyle

STEP FIVE

Breathe regularly. Your face is in the water so you need to remember to turn your head when you want to take a breath. Try to turn your head smoothly, leaving the side of your head resting in the water.

Watch Freestyle Videos below, practice them in your own pool!