Make a Splash in 2025: Ace the Water Safety Instructor Test – Dive into Success!

The mid pull phase is considered the strongest part of the pull in front crawl swimming because it is during this phase that the swimmer applies the greatest force to propel themselves through the water. As the hand has already entered the water and is positioned underneath the body, the swimmer can engage the largest muscle groups, including the latissimus dorsi and the pectorals, to generate substantial power. This is essential for maximizing propulsion and maintaining speed.

In the initial entry of the hand, the goal is to smoothly place the hand in the water without creating too much splash, and while important, this phase does not utilize full strength or power. The final push-off occurs after the mid pull, where the hand leaves the water, hence it is more about finishing the stroke rather than exerting the strongest force. The recovery phase is when the arm comes out of the water and is swung forward to re-enter; this phase has no propulsion and is not considered a strong part of the swim stroke. Thus, understanding the dynamics of the mid pull highlights its importance in effective front crawl technique and overall swimming performance.