I came to USMS about a year ago with no prior competitive swimming experience. I learned breaststroke in the 1970s through Red Cross lessons at summer camp. Breaststroke now seems to be rather different than what I learned so I am having to relearn. Due some staff and schedule changes at my pool, I have not had the same coach consistently. Mostly that is good because each has their own expertise for me to learn from. Unfortunately, I am getting conflicting information on breaststroke. I've been show hands in streamline position with one over top the other, hands side by side palms down, and hands like an arrow with palms facing and pinkies down. One coach said it is personal preference and that all positions are fine. I don't find that one is more efficient than another, but do tend to get shoulder pain if I use the streamline position during the glide. What would folks recommend?
I found that I have had to spend some serious time relearning how to swim after getting back the water- so much has changed! When I first got back in the pool my flexibility really limited me on some stroke work. I worked stretching and flexing into my water work, and that helped with my streamline (a lot). I go with what feels most comfortable and I can transition to a good catch with for my hands. I also work on this when we are doing sculling drills, trying to feel where my hands feel most natural.
Good luck, and try some stretching to get your streamline into shape.
I found that I have had to spend some serious time relearning how to swim after getting back the water- so much has changed! When I first got back in the pool my flexibility really limited me on some stroke work. I worked stretching and flexing into my water work, and that helped with my streamline (a lot). I go with what feels most comfortable and I can transition to a good catch with for my hands. I also work on this when we are doing sculling drills, trying to feel where my hands feel most natural.
Good luck, and try some stretching to get your streamline into shape.
