Freestyle - Pull Phase

Most swimmers begin the freestyle pull with a straight arm. If the elbow is flexed as backward hand motion begins, more force is generated. As soon as the arm straightens at the completion of the arm entry, watch the elbow flex to begin the pull. If the rate of elbow flexion is sufficient, the hand will pass directly beneath the head.

012

Two visual cues help master elbow flexion during the pull phase. At the completion of arm entry, see the hand directly in front of the shoulder. As the hand pulls back, see the hand pass directly beneath the head. With an optimal head position, both cues are within the swimmer's visual field.