My instructor wants me to use a kickboard to improve my kicking. I forget to keep kicking in the freestyle.
When I use it, it seems to hurt my back which I guess is because my head is up to breathe.
Are there other alternatives to using a kickboard to improve (or remember) to kick?
TIA
Parents
Former Member
If you must use a kickboard, keep it way out front of your arms/hands so you can put your face in the water every so often to exhale. If you are "mounted" on the board, that puts great stress on your neck, shoulders, etc. I don't use one primarily because of this problem. I kick without one which actually better emulates kicking and swimming. But try it and see if it helps.
And absolutely do not use a kickboard when kicking backstroke!!! I see so many folks with a kickboard behind their head when kicking back, totally incorrect body position.
donna
If you must use a kickboard, keep it way out front of your arms/hands so you can put your face in the water every so often to exhale. If you are "mounted" on the board, that puts great stress on your neck, shoulders, etc. I don't use one primarily because of this problem. I kick without one which actually better emulates kicking and swimming. But try it and see if it helps.
And absolutely do not use a kickboard when kicking backstroke!!! I see so many folks with a kickboard behind their head when kicking back, totally incorrect body position.
donna
