Up next in our 4-part physical therapy for swimmers series is a crowd favorite, backstroke!
Backstroke is often the first or second stroke that a swimmer masters. It appeals to many swimmers by allowing them to breath through the entirety of the stroke and keep their face out of the water.
But, this does not mean that the backstroke is simple. Backstroke involves asymmetrical arm and leg motions, requiring coordination of upper and lower rotation around a fixed neck and head. This stroke requires strong shoulder external rotation, adduction, and a powerful kick to keep the swimmer afloat on their back.