Anybody have tips on the arm pull for the elementary backstroke? Especially for easing strain on the elbows? I've found that oulling with closed fists helps, but want to make sure I'm not making any technical errors.
I am back on crutches for my bad foot (old running injury), and so my other joints (esp. shoulders and opposite hip) are getting achy. Elem back is about all I can do for for a while.
Thanks for your help.
Parents
Former Member
I am using the terminology from the book "Swimming for Total Fitness," by Dr. Jane Katz. There, the "elementary backstroke" means the legs do a whip kick (supine position, of course), while the arms pull symmetrically, recovering outside the water.
I recall that this used to be a competitive stroke in the Olympics (late 60s), but apparently it has yielded to the "windmill" style backstroke.
I find the elementary backstroke to be much easier, and less of a strain on the shoulders (esp, if the catch is made at the 45 degree position or less).
I was not familiar with the description "chicken, airplane, soldier". Very clever.
I am using the terminology from the book "Swimming for Total Fitness," by Dr. Jane Katz. There, the "elementary backstroke" means the legs do a whip kick (supine position, of course), while the arms pull symmetrically, recovering outside the water.
I recall that this used to be a competitive stroke in the Olympics (late 60s), but apparently it has yielded to the "windmill" style backstroke.
I find the elementary backstroke to be much easier, and less of a strain on the shoulders (esp, if the catch is made at the 45 degree position or less).
I was not familiar with the description "chicken, airplane, soldier". Very clever.
