I am attempting to perfect my start and turns for the breaststroke. I recently reviewed three articles on the breaststroke turn which I found on the USMS web site. All had different recommendations for the turn pullout. The article by Budd Termin and David Pendergast recommended holding for 1 second after pushing off the wall before beginning the pullout. Another by Wayne McCauley recommended 3 seconds. Another by John Moffet just says "as you begin to slow down, start your pullout." I know there has to be an optimum time and it may be somewhat swimmer dependent, but the difference I see between these three authors is huge. Can anyone help me understand this dilemma. Ray
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I agree with scyfreestyler (why is a freestyler giving breaststroke advice?? ;) )
Don't count. I do not see how that is a reliable method because your push off the wall may be different than theirs etc...
You want to maximize your speed advantage underwater. You should begin underwater propulsion before you lose any meaningful amount of momentum. I think this will become instinctive with a bit of practice.
Don't underestimate the importance of a streamlined body position including when you bring your hands up underneath your body after the pull. Be aware of your depth too. I was DQ'd recently because my 2nd pull began before my head broke the surface. I was too deep - I train in a pool 4-5 feet deep and I was racing in 8 feet. I came off the wall too deep.
I agree with scyfreestyler (why is a freestyler giving breaststroke advice?? ;) )
Don't count. I do not see how that is a reliable method because your push off the wall may be different than theirs etc...
You want to maximize your speed advantage underwater. You should begin underwater propulsion before you lose any meaningful amount of momentum. I think this will become instinctive with a bit of practice.
Don't underestimate the importance of a streamlined body position including when you bring your hands up underneath your body after the pull. Be aware of your depth too. I was DQ'd recently because my 2nd pull began before my head broke the surface. I was too deep - I train in a pool 4-5 feet deep and I was racing in 8 feet. I came off the wall too deep.
