Sprint Freestyle – High Octane Pulling Motion

At the Race Club we teach different swim techniques for specific events.  Sprint freestyle is unique because the swimmer should minimize oxygen intake as well as maximize propulsion.   In order to maximize velocity the recovering hand should be above the elbow.  We call this technique high octane freestyle.  The pulling motion can be deeper that causes more drag but also more propulsion.  Depending on the swimmer’s strength will help determine how deep they should pull.  Because the 50 free lasts under 30 seconds pulling with a deeper catch that also increases drag and fatigue is recommended.  We use the one arm freestyle drill to teach swimmer’s not only a deeper catch but a high octane recover.  This technique requires full and fast rotation of the shoulders timed with the pull.  In this video we cover a range of swimmers age and ability that demonstrate how we teach sprint freestyle technique accordingly.