Swimming with straight legs in certain strokes, like the flutter kick, requires engaging your glutes (bottom) to initiate the kick while maintaining leg extension.
Here's a breakdown:
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Engage Your Glutes: The primary mover for a straight-leg kick comes from your glute muscles. Focus on squeezing your glutes to initiate the upward and downward motion of your legs.
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Maintain Straight Legs: While initiating the kick from your glutes, consciously keep your legs straight. This doesn't mean stiff; it means a controlled extension without bending at the knees.
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Small Amplitude Kicks: Avoid large, exaggerated kicks. Smaller, faster kicks are more efficient and help maintain body position in the water.
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Core Engagement: A strong core helps stabilize your body and allows for more effective glute activation and leg control.
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Ankle Flexibility: While the legs are straight, flexible ankles are key to propelling yourself forward. Point your toes.
