When swimming... what leg muscles do you use to pedal?

Question

i use mostly my ankles... is that a bad idea?

Answer 1

Depends on which stroke you are using. For the front and side crawl the most common kick is the scissors kick in which the thigh muscle is used. Point the toes and keeping the leg almost straight kick up and down. For speed two kicks to each arm stroke and for endurance one kick per stroke. The timing is variable depending on your strength and ability but the above is a good rule of thumb for establishing your own training regime.

Answer 2

You should use your entire leg and keep your ankles loose.