Image: Peter H. Bick
Freestyle Swimming Pro Tip
Turn to the Popov drill for length and strength
We can learn a lot from the drills that the pros use. The Popov drill is named after legendary Russian sprinter Alexander Popov and is perfect for developing your length, balance, control, and rotation.
Here’s how to do this drill:
- Using fins, start by kicking on your side while looking straight down. Keep one arm extended above your head while the other rests on your hip.
- While remaining on your side, slide your thumb up along the side of your body to the armpit, then back down.
- On the second slide up, follow through past your armpit and spear into the water as you rotate to the other side.
- Keep your eyes looking down throughout the transfer, then pause slightly before rolling to take a breath.
This simple drill can quickly improve your length, control, and balance in freestyle.
