6.4. Freestyle catch-up drill without a kickboard
Video in the text
Practice
Swimbook
The freestyle catch-up drill without a kickboard is one of the most challenging exercises you’ll encounter in this course — and at the same time, it’s one of the most essential.
Once you manage to maintain a streamlined body position at the surface, keep your legs kicking slowly instead of dragging them, and — most importantly — take a breath without letting your arms fall apart in front, you’ll have mastered all the key elements needed for freestyle. This drill is tough in training, but it pays off in real swimming. If you can swim 50 meters of catch-up drill without a board and without gasping for air afterward, you’re just one step away from swimming freestyle for kilometers.
Proceed to the technique drill from the practical section:
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Level 4
Level 5
Level 6
Level 7
Level 8
Level 9
Level 10
Download your SWIMBOOK
It’s ready for each level and comes with illustrations to print.
I recommend printing it in color (images may be lost in black & white), placing it in a clear folder or plastic sleeve – and taking it straight to the pool.