Freestyle Swimming Technique: Step by Step Guide

Freestyle (front crawl) is the fastest and most commonly used swimming technique. With proper technique you can swim faster and more efficiently.

Body Position

Your body should be parallel to the water surface. Hips should not sink. Head in neutral position, only turn sideways when breathing.

Arm Movement

Elbow up, hand enters water with fingertips. Grab the water and push towards your hip. Pull straight, not S motion.

Kick

Flutter kick starting from hips. Knees slightly bent, ankles relaxed. 6 kicks/arm cycle is standard.

Breathing

Bilateral breathing (every 3 strokes) maintains balance. As your face turns sideways, breathe from the pocket in the water.

Common Mistakes

Keeping head too high, kicking from knee, opening arms too wide, stopping when breathing.