Howdy all,
We hope you all haven't missed us too much these last couple weeks. We resume this week with the penultimate post in our Beginner Freestyle Series. We look to wind out the final two posts while focusing on the recovery portion of the freestyle arm cycle. Although there is still particular focus to these last posts, we would still like to emphasize the importance of mastery of the other skills. Many of the tips on the latter half of this series have hinged upon a foundational portion of the stroke, particularly when discussing the trunk of the body. With that said, however, let's get into the recovery!
Found the above helpful? Like, comment, subscribe, share with a friend or family member!
As you may have found with the video, much of the focus for this part of the recovery is centered around the "arm path". The recovery is an important motion and typically the most uncomfortable part for non-seasoned swimmers, so the goal is to focus on the "bucket carry" to prevent any discomfort. Taking a step backwards, though, we must look at what allows for further relaxation in the motion. This includes what we call "opening up the recovery", which means that we keep our arms in line with the body (not behind) and really focus on rotating the hips. We cannot stress enough what a relief this creates on the shoulder! Rotation and also not entering too close to or too far from the face - we should find somewhere about halfway - are keys to a great recovery.
Fact of the week: Recovery should be just that: recovery. It should be the resting portion of the arm cycle because no actual propulsion is occurring when our arms are moving through the air. If you feel pain or discomfort, rewind your progression a little to pinpoint what the issue may be. Most importantly, we want the recovery portion to help you maintain the flow of your stroke. In the next (final) installment of the series, we'll talk more about how to apply all these skills into the timing of your stroke. Stay tuned and check out YouTube for more!
How does my child move up? Come to every swim class, bring your progress report, earn those stickers, and ask your child's instructor or location's deck manager if you have questions.
How do I move up? Attend as many of your classes as possible, communicate with your instructor on your struggles, goals, and where you're at in our curriculum. We also have many adults who purchase a gym membership to 24 Hour Fitness or LA Fitness while they are taking lessons so they can practice 2-3 times between classes.
Recover - or start - a love for swimming with these tips! Glad your swimmer is learning to swim with us!
The Sigma Team