Five Ways to Use a Swimming Kick Board

Swimming is a healthy water sport. Many different exercises can be done in the water with the use of a kick board. Kick boards provide several options for beginners as well as advanced swimmers.

#1 Traditional kick

The traditional kick is the most common way to use the kick board. It is also the only way that many people know how to use it. To perform the traditional kick, you simply hold on to the board with your hands and kick. This is a great way to strengthen the quadriceps and hamstrings. During lap swimming, the traditional kick is a great way to take a break without completely stopping.

#2 Breast stroke kick

The breast stroke kick works the inner thighs. After a few laps, prepare to feel a burn. To perform the breast stroke kick, hold on to the kick board and move your legs just as you would when performing the breast stroke. First, the knees are bent up. Then, the legs are pushed in a circular motion away from one another.

#3 Butterfly with the board (caterpillar)

The butterfly is a challenging swim stroke by itself. Adding the board makes the sound of this stroke a lot less intimidating. It is really more of a caterpillar type move than it is a butterfly. The caterpillar works your abdominal muscles, legs and hips. Hold on to the kick board, and then wiggle your body to make it move. This is the same wiggle technique that children are taught when they first learn to do the butterfly.

#4 Back kick with the board

The back kick is very relaxing. It works the front and back of your legs. Just lay on your back while holding on to the tip of the board. I enjoy doing this when I need a break from my goggles. I can remove my goggles and relax before returning to my free style swimming.

#5 Side kick with the board

To perform the side kick with the board, you simply hold on to the board with one hand while swimming on your side. Be sure to switch hands to equally work both sides of the body.

Safety tips

To prevent injuries you should always stretch before and after swimming. You should also avoid kicking with too much force. Alternate exercises so that you do not acquire an overuse injury. It is especially important to take a break from the breast stroke kick. The whip kick done during the breast stroke can cause swimmers knee.

Ready, set, jump in the water! Don't forget the kick board.

Rebecca completed courses in Medical Terminology, Administrative Medical Assisting, and Coding and Billing. She is recognized by the National Healthcareer Association as a Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) and Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA). In addition, Rebecca is a former gymnast and is avid about swimming, jogging, and other athletic activities.

Thanks to Yahoo News

Kathy Dowsett

www.kirkscubagear.com