Swimming w/ Head Above Water in *** & Freestyle OK/Safe?

Former Member
Former Member
Hello, I'm a new swimmer, who is currently self-teaching myself (while awaiting trained instruction to begin next Tuesday at the local city rec. center). A quick question I have that I have not found good answers for online thus far is whether or not one can safely swim with their head above water (at all times) doing the *** or freestyle strokes? I am aware that "normal" instruction and competitive swimming has the head and/or face in the water at some portions of those respective strokes, but am wondering if there is a safe variation that would allow a head-above-water swim? To be sure, I have seen some in my local rec. pool do the freestyle in that way, but had wondered whether that was just improper form on their part or if there actually is a safe/viable variation like that. I appreciate everyone's time and help and thank you very much in advance for the help!
Parents
  • It's much more comfortable not to be craning your neck to keep your head above water; and I would say it's safer in the long run to get out of the habit of trying to keep your head above water because that inefficient stroke might get you into a situation that only an efficient stroke can get you out of; in deep water, for example, away from shore. Also, if you don't like having your face underwater for long periods learn an efficient backstroke too... that might be more comfortable for you anyway. I've seen folks at the Y who do at least half of their yardage as backstroke, just because they can breathe more easily and find it more comfortable.
Reply
  • It's much more comfortable not to be craning your neck to keep your head above water; and I would say it's safer in the long run to get out of the habit of trying to keep your head above water because that inefficient stroke might get you into a situation that only an efficient stroke can get you out of; in deep water, for example, away from shore. Also, if you don't like having your face underwater for long periods learn an efficient backstroke too... that might be more comfortable for you anyway. I've seen folks at the Y who do at least half of their yardage as backstroke, just because they can breathe more easily and find it more comfortable.
Children
No Data