For the last several years, I have been working on swimming with my head in alignment with the rest of my body, given me the appreance of looking straight down at the bottom and my head totally below water.
Yet, watching good masters swimmers, age group and elite swimmers, they all appear to be looking forward and down. I know the head position is a lot lower than in the early 90's and before but I am wondering what everyone else here thinks.
Today, I swam with my head tilted slightly forward, still looking down but the down now is a litte bit more in front of me. It seemed easier to swim but I am not sure on if it is correct.
I would appreciate all thoughts.
Thanks,
John
Former Member
Letting the water flow over your head, just slightly, will raise your hips. Less drag means not only easier swimming...but faster too.
Keeping your head "in neutral" means head facing downwards, with the eyes looking just a little bit forward.
This video shows Phelps (towards the end)...head buried...and strong shoulder rotation.
video.google.com/videoplay
A good article by Coach Emmett Hines...even if it's a bit dated. He's right on the mark.
www.usms.org/.../articledisplay.php
"Is Your Head Attached? "
