Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Practice Exam

What aspect is crucial during the mid-pull in back crawl?

1. Breath control

2. Body position

3. Power and resistance

4. Timing

The correct answer is: Power and resistance

During the mid-pull in back crawl, power and resistance are critical factors that significantly influence the efficiency and effectiveness of the stroke. The mid-pull phase is when the swimmer generates thrust by pulling the water with their arm. This involves applying a strong and effective stroke technique to maximize propulsion while minimizing drag. Proper power application during this phase helps the swimmer move forward swiftly and with less effort. Resistance plays a role in that it involves the swimmer's ability to push against the water effectively, using the water's buoyancy and resistance to their advantage. Therefore, harnessing both the power in the stroke and understanding the resistance created by the water allows for optimal movement and speed across the swimming surface. In contrast, while breath control, body position, and timing are important elements in swimming, they are not as pivotal as power and resistance specifically in the mid-pull phase of back crawl. Breath control is certainly crucial in overall swimming performance, but it does not influence the mechanical aspect of the arm's pull during this specific segment. Body position contributes significantly to overall efficiency and drag reduction but is more about the swimmer's posture rather than the action of pulling. Timing is vital in coordinating movements, but it is not the defining factor during the mid-pull, as