What is the proper arm recovery technique for the Green Stroke School Swim Benchmark when performing backstroke?

The proper arm recovery technique for the Green Stroke School Swim Benchmark when performing backstroke is straight arm recovery. This technique involves lifting the arm out of the water straight and moving it directly back to the starting position, with minimal bending of the elbow. This method promotes a streamlined position in the water, reduces drag, and allows for a more effective entry of the arm back into the water as it prepares for the next stroke.

Straight arm recovery also helps swimmers maintain better body alignment and balance during the stroke, facilitating a more efficient and controlled swim. This technique contrasts with others, such as flutter arm recovery, which is more appropriate for freestyle, or dolphin arm recovery, typically used in the butterfly stroke. Understanding these nuances helps swimmers perform each stroke correctly and maximize their potential in the water.