by S
(Regional NSW Australia)
I have an adult beginner who has all the freestyle techniques OK and can put it together well. However he has a problem with his shoulders lifting and rolling when kicking.
It is really pronounced. The shoulders lift and roll alternately to the leg kicks. ie: right leg kick lifts the left shoulder out of water. The faster he kicks, the more pronounced the roll. Its like he's dancing in the water!
However, the spine, arms, neck and head appear to be maintaining their streamline position (no noticeable movement other than slight elevation of upper arms as the shoulder lifts/rolls). Any hints or ideas greatly appreciated.
I guess the first thing that needs to be asked is what you are attempting to achieve from kicking with a kickboard?
If it is leg strength, stamina or technique you are attempting to gain, then the fact that he moves his shoulders when he kicks is of no real relevance. Especially if his leg kick technique is correct and he is covering some distance down the pool, then he will be gaining what he needs from the exercise.
It is probably the case that he is only doing what comes naturally and I suspect when he puts the arms and legs together for the full stroke, he kicks and pulls with the same rhythm and timing that he
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