How to Teach the Elementary Backstroke Kick

The elementary backstroke uses a combination of a frog kick and both arms moving simultaneously to propel swimmers through the water. Beginning swimmers can use the elementary backstroke when they are struggling in deeper waters. This stroke is easier to teach, because it does not use alternating arms and legs to complete the stroke.

Things You'll Need

  • Styrofoam Swim Noodles
  • Pool
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Instructions

    • 1

      Get the student to lie on her back with feet propped up against the pool wall. This position teaches her how to work the arm portion of the elementary backstroke. Have the student bring her arms up the sides of the body, bending at the elbow until hands are above the head. With arms locked at the elbows have her bring her arms back to her sides. Keep practicing this step until your student is comfortable with how the arms work as part of the stroke.

    • 2

      Give the student a Styrofoam swim noodle. Have her sit on the noodle and work on the leg half of the elementary backstroke. Start off with legs straight in front of the body, and then have her bend at the knees, pulling her feet toward the hips. Have your student extend her feet out to her sides, forming a "V" with her legs and then bring the ankles back together. Repeat this step until she is comfortable with the feet half of the elementary backstroke.

    • 3

      Have the student lie on her back in the water. Have the student try to put both parts of the stroke together while in the water. Place the Styrofoam swim noodle under the small of her back to make her more at ease when doing this step for the first time. After she gets more comfortable, remove the noodle and continue practicing until she is able to do the stroke across the pool by herself.

    • 4

      Continue practicing the elementary backstroke with your student in the shallow end of the pool before jumping in at the deep end. Once she is comfortable, move away from shallow water and continue moving deeper until she is able to complete the stroke in the deepest part of the pool. Remember, when teaching children, stay by the student's side at all times and place your arm under the small of her back if she needs assistance.