The breaststroke is one of the four competitive swimming strokes, and it requires proper technique, timing, and positioning to execute effectively. One crucial aspect of the breaststroke is the start. In this article, we’ll walk you through six steps to master your breaststroke start.

Step 1: Take Your Mark

The breaststroke start begins with taking your mark. Place your feet shoulder-width apart on the edge of the starting block or pool deck. Bend your knees slightly and grip the edge of the block or pool with your hands. Make sure that your body weight is over your hips and ensure that you’re using a grip and stance that feel comfortable.

Step 2: Prepare for Entry

Lean forward slightly while keeping your arms extended but not locked. Angle them downwards so that they point towards the water at about a 45-degree angle. Keep your gaze focused a few feet in front of you on the water’s surface, and take a deep breath in preparation for entry.

Step 3: The Dive

To initiate your dive, push off from the starting block or pool deck using your legs while simultaneously extending your arms towards the water. Aim for an entry point that is slightly less than a body length away from where you are standing.

Step 4: Streamline Position

Once underwater, maintain a streamlined position by stretching out your arms in front of you – fingertips-to-fingertips – and pressing your head against your arms. Keep your legs straight behind you and squeezed together as tightly as possible. This will help reduce drag and improve efficiency while underwater.

Step 5: Dolphin Kick

After entering the water, perform one fluid dolphin kick. Propel yourself forward by keeping your legs together while kicking downward in an undulating motion that starts at your hips and extends all the way down through to your toes.

Step 6: Begin Your Breaststroke

As you rise toward the surface, begin your initial breaststroke cycle by completing an underwater pull-out. This involves widening your hands to form a Y-shape as you pull them towards your chest before pushing them back out in front of you. At the same time, bend your knees and execute a simultaneous whip kick while pushing off with your hands to take your first stroke.

By following these six steps, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the breaststroke start. Remember that practice makes perfect, so be patient and persistent in refining and perfecting these techniques. With time and effort, you will see noticeable improvements in your breaststroke performance.