06/10/2026
The breaststroke pullout isn’t just a formality off the wall—it’s free speed. 🤫
Often called the “fifth stroke,” a clean, powerful underwater phase can help you gain a full body length on the competition before you even break the surface. But most swimmers waste it by rushing or gliding too long.
Here is the perfect breakdown to master your underwater momentum:
1️⃣ The Launch: Hit a razor-sharp, tight streamline immediately after your dive or turn. Think like a torpedo—the tighter you are, the less the water slows you down.
2️⃣ The Glide: Take a short, patient moment to ride the speed you already have. Moving too soon just breaks your flow.
3️⃣ The Dolphin Kick: Drop one powerful dolphin kick while staying locked in your streamline.
4️⃣ The Arm Pull-Down: Smoothly sweep your arms all the way down to your thighs. Keep it narrow and controlled rather than wide to avoid drag.
5️⃣ The Recovery & First Stroke: Bring your hands back up close to your body, snap a breaststroke kick, and transition seamlessly into your first stroke right before you lose momentum.
⏱️ Remember the golden rule: Don’t pull too early, but don’t hold the glide until you’re dead in the water. Timing is everything!
👉 Save this post to try on your next swim set! 🏊♂️ swimcoach competitiveswimming swimmerslife swimreels fifthstroke mastersswimming
