FIRST CLASS SCOUT

Breaststroke

This is one of the oldest strokes used in Scouting, and variations range from a restful distance stroke to a competitive racing stroke. With an extended glide as taught in Scouting, the breaststroke is a powerful, long-distance stroke that conserves energy and has certain applications in life- saving The stroke uses a whip kick and shallow arm pull.

Start in the prone glide position with your face in the water. As you drop and pull your hands, lift your face out to breathe and draw your feet toward your hips. When your arms are at the level of your shoulders, your legs should be under your hips with your feet drawn up. Breathe in and have your face ready to go back in the water. Rotate your hands until they meet under your chin and thrust them through the water to the extended position. Your legs push out and hack in a circular motion, your face returns to the water, ankles touch, and legs extend. Hold the glide for a count of three or four while exhaling into the water. Then begin the stroke again.