What this swimming skill is
Once an arm has swung over, the hand goes back into the water and pushes water toward the feet. That push is what moves your child along. Many new swimmers put the hands in behind the head, or just splash the surface. This skill is about a hand that goes in on its own side and pushes steadily.
It comes after your child can swing the arms over cleanly. Next they put everything together into the whole stroke: arms, kick and a steady rhythm.
See it in action
Swimming Lesson: How to Backstroke (2/2)
Backstroke with one arm, to feel the body stay steady while the other arm pulls.
From the AquaMobile YouTube channel
Why it matters
Moving along with each stroke.
When the hands push water back, each stroke carries your child forward instead of just splashing.
Swimming straight.
Hands that go in on their own side keep the body from snaking back and forth.
Less tiring.
A steady push does the work with less effort than fast, splashy arms.
Who it is for
This skill is for children, teens and adults who can swing the arms over on their back. Children usually start with a simpler, straighter arm and refine the stroke as they grow stronger. Teens and adults can often go further sooner. If you are learning as an adult, or you or your child have a shoulder that bothers you, please tell your instructor before you start. They keep the movement shallow and comfortable.
