Your arms are the power in backcrawl, like the engine of a car.

They make a circling action with one following the other over and under the water.

One arm should never be allowed to catch the other one up.

The best way to start the arms is by putting your arm in the water in a straight line above your shoulder.

Good strong pull

This is also easier if you put your little finger in first.

Once your hand is in the water it should push towards your feet.

The best way to do this is bend your elbow slightly and pull your arm by the side to your thigh.

This will give you a good strong pull, and remember, your hand must do the pushing not your elbow.

Keep pushing your hand towards your feet until your elbow is straight. Then lift it out of the water and over the top of your body ready to start again. Keep it straight all of the time it is out of the water.

Introduction

Basic: Step 1

Basic: Step 2

Basic: Step 3

Intermediate level

Advanced level