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Slow breaststroke vs faster front crawl - which is more efficient?

Front crawl might get you there faster, but breast stroke can be better for a number of reasons, say our readers

20 July 2022

Young women swim breaststroke, wearing swimming caps and goggles.

Justa Jeskova/Getty Images

I am a casual swimmer who does a steady breaststroke in the pool. I am often overtaken by people doing front crawl, but who is actually swimming the more efficient stroke?

@laurafae_,via Twitter

As a competitive swimmer for 10 years, front crawl is the most efficient stroke when done correctly due to having the least active drag. However, if the technique isn’t correct, it can be one of the hardest.

Chris Boynieson, via Facebook

In terms of energy expended, front crawl is more efficient for a skilled swimmer. Breaststroke uses the big leg muscles, and you can spend half…

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