Lately, I have been experimenting with the catch in freestyle. I used to think that the best time to start the catch was when my arm got full extension, catch, then roll.
After a few days of playing around with the timing, it seems to be a little bit better(for me) when I start the catch with the arm that is in the water, when the body begins to swift to my otherside.
Please feel free to share your thoughts. I would love hear other's opinions.
Thanks!
John
Parents
Former Member
I agree ....too early a catch can force a slight sideways not forward motion. Although in my case when sprinting I find I'm stiffer through the body and this prevents any sideways motion.
Our coach always suggests an early catch but keep the real pressure off until the back half of the stroke. This allows you to get a good solid catch (no wheel spins) and it also emphasizes the forward motion.
Paddles can help refine this action in training.
Further to this it helps prevents shoulder damage. Most important when using paddles.
I agree ....too early a catch can force a slight sideways not forward motion. Although in my case when sprinting I find I'm stiffer through the body and this prevents any sideways motion.
Our coach always suggests an early catch but keep the real pressure off until the back half of the stroke. This allows you to get a good solid catch (no wheel spins) and it also emphasizes the forward motion.
Paddles can help refine this action in training.
Further to this it helps prevents shoulder damage. Most important when using paddles.
