How to Practice Breaststroke Kicks Without a Kickboard

Breaststroke kicks can propel swimmers forward in the water. However, if performed incorrectly, they can cause resistance and drag, hindering your forward motion. Practicing breaststroke kicks alone focuses you on your technique.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Push off the wall and do your customary underwater pull and kick. However, leave your arms down by your side on the kick instead of bringing them out in front of you.

2. Bring your head out of the water and place your hands on your buttocks.

3. Set up your breaststroke kick by bending your knees and bringing both feet up to your hands at the same time.

4. Move your feet out to the sides and begin your kicks.

5. Continue the breaststroke kicks with your hands on your buttocks for the remainder of the set.

6. Flip over on your back, push off the wall and perform the same drill with your hands underneath your buttocks. Keep your knees shoulder-width apart.

Tips & Warnings

• Practicing breaststroke kicks on your stomach, with your hands on your buttocks, focuses you on the placement of your feet and knees. Your feet should come straight up to your buttocks and touch your hands before pushing out to the sides and down.
• Practicing breaststroke kicks on your back focuses you on the position of your legs and knees throughout the stroke. Your knees should not come out of the water towards your chest. Instead, your feet should come up under you toward your buttocks. Your thighs and knees should remain aligned with your torso.

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