The dolphin kick will be allowed in breaststroke races soon. This will make Japan happy, as will it make a certain university in California vindicated that all of its breaststrokers have been doing that kick for at least 15 years.
www.swimmingworldmagazine.com/.../9740.asp
Personally, I don't want to do it. But of course I'll have to if I want to win against those who have total freedom to do it.
This is the worst rule change ever.
Frank, I don't think anyone ever implied that you could dolphin kick between the walls. Just the one time off the start and turns. While the effect may be miniscule (about five tenths to a full second depending on ability and course), it has a larger meaning in swimming.
The cheaters got what they wanted. But maybe, as I think on it some more, we're leveling the playing field. The cheaters can't use it to get away with a few tenths on the turn. Now, of course, they'll have to find something else.
I just think that instead of changing the rule to allow a dolphin kick, FINA should train their judges on how to spot an illegal kick. Do clinics at major meets where they saw the bright lights affect their vision. Maybe put two judges on the end of the pool in each lane. Hold the swimmer accountable. Don't throw your hands up in frustration and say "I give up. Kitajima wins."
When I was an age group coach, I always told my kids who would do the dolhin kick that they think it's small, but there would always be a very observant official who would see it.
My observation of stroke judges these days is that the only things they need to look for anymore is whether two hands touch the wall on fly and ***, the turn is continuous on back, and the roll turn on back to *** is done without breaking the plane.
In conclusion, this ruling is making the officials' jobs easier.
Frank, I don't think anyone ever implied that you could dolphin kick between the walls. Just the one time off the start and turns. While the effect may be miniscule (about five tenths to a full second depending on ability and course), it has a larger meaning in swimming.
The cheaters got what they wanted. But maybe, as I think on it some more, we're leveling the playing field. The cheaters can't use it to get away with a few tenths on the turn. Now, of course, they'll have to find something else.
I just think that instead of changing the rule to allow a dolphin kick, FINA should train their judges on how to spot an illegal kick. Do clinics at major meets where they saw the bright lights affect their vision. Maybe put two judges on the end of the pool in each lane. Hold the swimmer accountable. Don't throw your hands up in frustration and say "I give up. Kitajima wins."
When I was an age group coach, I always told my kids who would do the dolhin kick that they think it's small, but there would always be a very observant official who would see it.
My observation of stroke judges these days is that the only things they need to look for anymore is whether two hands touch the wall on fly and ***, the turn is continuous on back, and the roll turn on back to *** is done without breaking the plane.
In conclusion, this ruling is making the officials' jobs easier.
