Question about front crawl.?

Question

I was taught to do the straight hand stroke when I was a beginner in the swimming lesson. Now,after 3 months, my trainer decided to teach the 's' shape stroke for my hand stroke. I tried it a lot but still get confused. I don't know whether I have to push towards my chest or lower plus how low my hand should be etc. Advices? so I can do the s shape stroke better?

thanks

Answer 1

The other answer is correct, up to a point.  By your question, I can tell you have not had the mechanics of a proper stroke explained to you.  The proper arm stroke is an extension of the torque you get from proper streamlining and body roll.  Straight is faster and requires more strength.  Any sideways movement is wasted energy.  Are you swimming sideways or down the pool?

A book on this: Total Immersion, Terry Laughlin.

I have read this book and it will help you more than your current trainer, if you put in the work.

Answer 2

wow....both of the above answers are pretty worthless....so...straight is actually slow...the "s" pattern you speak of is faster because it is intended to move "still" water...you cup water thats not moving its fast...if you try to cup moving water...not so much...now...as far as your stroke...thumb up your side...elbow up....enter the water and reach...your body should turn (not your head) then bend your wrist where your fingers point out....cup the water and bring it towards your chest and then push past your body....now as far as low youre hand is...too high moving moving water too deep and wasting time and energy....i wish i could tell you but without showing you its hard so...thats something youre going to have to find.....it should be comfortable but can take some getting used to....practice on pulling dont worry about kicking just the pull...when you get that down add them together....Good Luck...email with any questions ill be glad to help.....

Answer 3

first of all, you sound like a swimmer if you call it freestyle, instead of the crawl,  second,  join a team.  they will help you.  also, you can buy videos to help break down the stroke for you.

Answer 4

The "s" stroke is to increase the length of your pull. A crooked line is longer in length than a straight one.  When your hand enters the water, it should enter extended in front of your shoulder. Start your pull by catching the water and pulling it under your chest. Your hand shouldn't cross the mid line of your body but your fingertips will be close (elbows will be at about 90 degree angles). From under your chest push your hands towards your toes and imagine "pushing" the water towards your toes with your hands finishing at your thighs. It's almost like dribbling a basketball where you snap your wrist to push the ball downward toward your toes.

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Good luck.