The chest stroke is a popular swimming technique used by athletes and recreational swimmers alike. The arms are the primary force-producers when swimming, and proper arm positioning and movement can greatly improve efficiency and speed. This article will explain the benefits of proper rotational hand movement and techniques for chest stroke hand movement.
Benefits of Proper Rotational Hand Movement
When performing the chest stroke, proper rotational hand movement is essential for efficient and effective swimming. Rotational hand movement helps to maximize the power of each stroke, improves body alignment, and increases distance per stroke. It also helps to reduce drag and fatigue, as well as develop better body coordination.
Additionally, proper rotational hand movement helps to prevent injury. By rotating the hands during the stroke, the swimmer is able to reduce strain on the shoulder and elbow joints, which can be a common cause of shoulder and elbow pain in swimmers.
Techniques for Chest Stroke Hand Movement
The first step in developing proper rotational hand movement is to ensure that the elbows are kept close to the body during the entire stroke. This will help to ensure that the arms remain in the correct position and maintain the proper alignment of the body.
The next step is to ensure that the hands rotate during the stroke. This can be achieved by rotating the hands from the wrists, rather than from the shoulder joint. This will help to ensure that the arms remain in the correct position and maximize the power of the stroke.
Finally, it is important to ensure that the hands are fully extended at the end of the stroke. This will help to reduce drag and ensure that the arms are in the correct position for the next stroke.
In conclusion, proper rotational hand movement is essential for efficient and effective swimming. By following the techniques outlined above, swimmers can improve their technique and reduce the risk of injury. With practice, swimmers can develop proper rotational hand movement and maximize the power of each stroke.
