14-time NCAA All-American Coley Stickels teaches swimmers the “Circle Fist Drill” to get them to shrug their shoulders and roll them forward, which are both key techniques to a great breaststroke. In addition to providing the correct shoulder motion, this drill also teaches athletes to lift with their forearms.

Circle Fist Drill

Drill Summary: The swimmer pushes off the wall and extends their arms straight out with their elbows locked and fists clenched. Next, the athlete creates a circle with their arms instead of taking a full breaststroke. The swimmer should use their forearms to lift, and shrug their shoulders to their earlobes. This drill is usually done with a flutter kick and speed isn’t important. An alternate version of this drill can be completed by putting on fins and alternating with fists and open hands.

This video came from Championship Productions’ video “Mega Drills for Breaststroke.” View other world class Swimming & Diving videos!