To optimize glide in the front crawl and conserve energy, you must refine the hand entry into the water by performing a precise and relaxed movement.

noli's read

In sports biomechanics, the impact of hand entry on hydrodynamics is widely demonstrated. Research measuring active drag (Toussaint et al., evidence type: observational/experimental biomechanics) confirms that poor hand positioning during penetration into the water generates increased resistance. This hydrodynamic drag forces the body to mobilize more energy to maintain speed, which impairs fluidity and endurance. Conversely, kinematic analyses (Goncharov, evidence type: biomechanical modeling) confirm that precise entry (fingers first, aligned with the shoulder) minimizes water disturbance and promotes glide. Finally, movement analysis consensus (ActivePT, evidence type: expert opinion) reiterates that a relaxed movement protects the shoulder from unnecessary joint strain while maintaining swimming efficiency.

the sources

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