I've read in a few web sites that you burn less calories swimming freestyle than using a breaststroke, is this true ? why ?
Can anyone expand on this concept ?
-Rc
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Former Member
Definitely the a 52 second breaststroke over 100 m will burn more calories than the 52 second free or back. The reason for this is the repeated deceleration that takes place when the arms and hands recover underwater. The stroke also presents a less streamline body against the water, increasing drag. To overcome it and swim at the same speed as a freestyler, the breaststroker will have to use more energy. For a detailed scientific discussion (at least the most complete I've seen) you could check out the text by Ernest Maglischo, titled "Swimming Fastest".
Definitely the a 52 second breaststroke over 100 m will burn more calories than the 52 second free or back. The reason for this is the repeated deceleration that takes place when the arms and hands recover underwater. The stroke also presents a less streamline body against the water, increasing drag. To overcome it and swim at the same speed as a freestyler, the breaststroker will have to use more energy. For a detailed scientific discussion (at least the most complete I've seen) you could check out the text by Ernest Maglischo, titled "Swimming Fastest".
