Flutter Kick Exercise
The child sits on a step in the shallow end with the legs about halfway in the water. With legs and feet stretched out, the child moves the straight legs slowly up and down, starting gently and gradually kicking stronger. This flutter kick is a key foundation of propulsion for freestyle and backstroke.
Preparatory exercises
Arm over knee
Here are two tips for the exercise: Start slowly—first, lift the left leg completely straight for two to three seconds, then the right leg. Demonstrate the movement together by sitting next to your child. During the main exercise, occasionally place one arm over your child's knees. The main goal is to keep the legs straight, and the arm over the legs helps prevent excessive knee bending.
Flutter kick land exercise
Place a swim mat on land; the child lies on their stomach and lifts their straight legs alternately. Demonstrate and insist on slow execution — three seconds per leg — assisting at the thigh and lower leg if needed. The goal is developing a sense of movement with straight legs; difficulties on land usually mean a harder execution in the water.
Common mistakes
Pulled-in feet
Point your feet during this exercise, as this is crucial for the proper freestyle kick later on. Start slowly and regularly check the foot position. If the feet are pulled in, pause the kicking motion and restart the exercise.
Riding a bike
The most common mistake in kicking is initiating the movement from the knees instead of the thighs and hips, with the legs remaining bent. This error significantly impacts exercises that build on this core skill. A proper kick is essential for both backstroke and freestyle swimming. An incorrect kick not only reduces propulsion but also disrupts the overall body position in the water.
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