Kick (breaststroke) (skill)
Definition: Breaststroke is called a “short axis” stroke because the hips hinge and move a little like butterfly.
Core cues:
- Hinge at the hips; push water with the crown
- Driving the hips forward to breathe and then shoving the hips up like a Butterfly kick as the kick drives the hands into Position 11
Coach interpretation:
- Hinge at the hips: the hips hinge and move a little like butterfly.
- Push water with the crown: push water with the crown.
- Driving the hips forward to breathe and then shoving the hips up like a Butterfly kick as the kick drives the hands into Position 11: adding this element of hip movement contributes to the rhythm of the stroke and will help with timing for the arms, breath, kick, and glide.
Teaching strategy:
Breaststroke kick is hard, so teach it in small little chunks. Only Position 11 and Eat.
Common errors and corrections:
- Not specified in source.
Progression:
Arms with breath Kick Glide; Arms with breath Arms to Position 11.
Short verified cues (confirmed present; check by eye): “butterfly.”, “glide.”, “chunks?”