Most breaststrokers rush the glide. The result is a slow stroke. The right move is a long glide where the body shoots forward through the water with no work. This drill teaches the kid to wait for the glide.
What you need: A pool.
Setup: Swimmer at one end.
How to run it:
- One pull, one kick, one glide. Repeat.
- The glide phase: hands together overhead, body in streamline, no movement. Hold for 2 seconds.
- After 2 seconds, start the next pull.
- Do 4 lengths with rest.
- Count cycles per length. Fewer cycles means longer glides.
What to watch: The glide hold. If the swimmer immediately starts the next pull, the glide is too short. Hold for the full 2 seconds.
If they’re struggling: Use a kickboard for the glide phase. Build the timing first.
If they’ve got it: Goal: 4 strokes per 25 feet. Or 6 strokes per 50 feet.