The Complete Book of Swimming Author:James E. Counsilman This book is for swimmers of every level, from beginning through competitive. The skilled swimmer should skip the first chapter unless he wants to use it as a guide in teaching someone else to swim. Some readers may find it helpful to reread certain chapters several times in order to get a clear idea of exactly what I am trying to say. The chapt... more »ers that describe each stroke will be among those that need extra attention. Study the pictures and drawings carefully; note particularly the arm pull pattern of each stroke, the amount of bend in the elbow, the position of the body in the water, and so on. It is important to learn correctly the first time and not have to unlearn bad habits later on.
Challenge yourself! Remember that the drills I recommend were not put there just to take up space. Each drill has a specific goal, which is to teach you a necessary skill and help you perfect it. There is also an important progression factor. Skills are usually best learned when they are taught in a certain sequence, progressing from the simple to the more complex.« less