So earlier at practice I experimented with flat feet coming off every wall. There was a very noticeable difference. I could surface with ease past the flags, without any DKs. In my first two years of swimming, I have used just the balls (and toes) of my feet in coming off the walls.
Flat feet (that is, both ball and heel) feels a little awkward right now, like any technique change, but I think I'm going to start adjusting to it for permanent use.
Thanks to Jim Thornton who suggested I make this a poll!
Parents
Former Member
I am a balls guy, but I look at the vids provided and I see where Coach T is comming from. I also know that I should be swimming closer to the wall before starting my turn. Alas, I am a lazy, lazy guy.
It makes sense to me that the foot should be flexed as much as possible before starting the push. That would mean that the heels are pretty darn close to touching the wall.
If I took the extra half stroke, my heels would be in contact (or very close to it) and I would reap the rewards of a stronger push off, staying longer underwater, and dying the last ten yards of the race.
I agree with Coach T.
I am a balls guy, but I look at the vids provided and I see where Coach T is comming from. I also know that I should be swimming closer to the wall before starting my turn. Alas, I am a lazy, lazy guy.
It makes sense to me that the foot should be flexed as much as possible before starting the push. That would mean that the heels are pretty darn close to touching the wall.
If I took the extra half stroke, my heels would be in contact (or very close to it) and I would reap the rewards of a stronger push off, staying longer underwater, and dying the last ten yards of the race.
I agree with Coach T.
