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
Parents
Former Member
Many have also experimented with no pulldown during breaststroke, and they tell me it can be faster.
I have also discussed the no pulldown with many officials from past Olympics, USS Nationals etc., and they all said they would disqualify someone for no pulldown. So you may get away with it once, but try it when it counts like nationals, and see what happens.
I routinely use no pulldown on the turns, especially at high altitude or in the 400 IM, where oxygen is at a premium. I don't know if it is faster but it certainly is more comfortable and leads to the resumption of better quality stroke sooner. That factor is more important to me than an extra yard or two (over the course of the race) under the water because there is no break or roughness in the swim cycle while I try to regain breath control.
I have NEVER been disqualified and always swim BR at nationals.
-- mel
Many have also experimented with no pulldown during breaststroke, and they tell me it can be faster.
I have also discussed the no pulldown with many officials from past Olympics, USS Nationals etc., and they all said they would disqualify someone for no pulldown. So you may get away with it once, but try it when it counts like nationals, and see what happens.
I routinely use no pulldown on the turns, especially at high altitude or in the 400 IM, where oxygen is at a premium. I don't know if it is faster but it certainly is more comfortable and leads to the resumption of better quality stroke sooner. That factor is more important to me than an extra yard or two (over the course of the race) under the water because there is no break or roughness in the swim cycle while I try to regain breath control.
I have NEVER been disqualified and always swim BR at nationals.
-- mel
