Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Practice Exam

Which skill is essential for the recovery phase in back crawl?

1. Speed of arm entry

2. Timing of leg kicks

3. Efficient arm movement

4. Breath control

The correct answer is: Efficient arm movement

The recovery phase in back crawl is primarily characterized by the arm movement as the swimmer prepares for the next stroke cycle. Efficient arm movement is crucial during this phase because it allows for a smooth transition and maintains momentum. The arms must be lifted out of the water in a streamlined manner while the body remains balanced and buoyant. This efficient movement not only helps in propelling the swimmer forward but also assists in maintaining a consistent rhythm and proper body position, which are vital for effective swimming. While aspects like speed of arm entry, timing of leg kicks, and breath control are important in various swim strokes, they do not carry the same essential weight in the recovery phase of back crawl as efficient arm movement does. The focus during this phase is largely on how the arms are positioned and moved, making it the most critical skill to master for optimizing performance in back crawl.