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The Power of the Frog Kick in Scuba Diving

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Last updated on July 31, 2023

Why Frog Kick?


In our SCUBA diving training program, we emphasize the use of frog kick technique as our primary finning style. This technique is highly effective in propelling you through the water while conserving your energy, making it ideal for longer or deeper dives. 

Furthermore, frog kick is the core of reverse finning and helicopter finning. Regardless without fins, by applying frog kick finning style, you definitely can manoeuvring underwater. 

Watch the videos to know further on how to do frog kick finning style.

In our SCUBA diving training program, we emphasize the use of frog kick technique as our primary finning style. 

This technique is highly effective in propelling you through the water while conserving your energy, making it ideal for longer or deeper dives. 

Furthermore, frog kick is the core of reverse finning and helicopter finning.

Regardless without fins, by applying frog kick finning style, you definitely can manoeuvring underwater. 

Watch the videos to know further on how to do frog kick finning style.

Video 1: Frog Kick With Fins


Frog Kick Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Body Positioning

  • Make a horizontal position in the water, with your body parallel to the surface and your arms confortably extended forward.
  • Position your legs slightly bent at the kness, resembling a frog's legs at rest

Step 2: Leg Separation

  • Begin the frog kick by simultaneously opening your legs outwards, away from each other.
  • Kepp your knees slighly bent during this motion to maintain balance and stability

Step 3: Generate Propulsion

  • With your legs spread apart, quickly flex your ankles and push the water backward using the inner sides of your fins.
  • Imagine making a "W" shape with your fins as you kick.

Step 4: Leg Recovery

  • After propulsive phase, bring your legs back together smoothly and simultaneously.
  • Bend your knees slighly as your legs come back to their initial position

Step 5: The Glide Phase

  • As you bring your legs together slowly, allow yourself to glide forward effortlessly.
  • Keep your body streamlines to minimize resistance and conserve energy

Step 6: Repeat and Coordinate

  • Practice the frog kick motion repeatedly to develop muscle memory and improve efficiency.

Tips for Perfecting Frog Kick:

  1. Use the entire length of your fins for maximum propulsion, including the area close to the tips.
  2. Avoid kicking too forcefully, as it may stir up sediment and end up making you tired faster.
  3. Focus on the rhythm and fluidity of the kick, aiming for smooth and controlled movements.
  4. On Step 4 (leg recovery) do it slow, count 1-3, then slowly recover back your leg position.

Remember, mastering frog kick takes time and practice. Stay patient and dedicated to refining this essential finning technique, and soon you'll glide through the underwater world with grace and efficiency.

Video 2: Frog Kick Without Fins


Finless diving might sound like a daring endeavor, but it's not as daunting as it seems. In fact, it opens up a realm of possibilities and unique experiences for scuba enthusiasts. By perfecting the frog kick technique, you can explore the underwater world with unparalleled freedom and maneuverability.

Video 3: Back Kick With Fins


IMPORTANT:
Before venturing into the back kick, ensure you have mastered the frog kick technique. The frog kick serves as a foundation, providing stability and maneuverability underwater.

Back Kick Step-by-Step

Step 1: Body Positioning

Assume a horizontal position in the water, with your body parallel to the surface. Keep your arms comfortably extended forward to maintain balance during the back kick.

Step 2: Leg Positioning

Position your legs in a streamlined manner, keeping them slightly bent at the knees.

Step 3: Back Kick Motion

Begin the back kick by simultaneously pushing your legs backward, bending your knees slightly, and flexing your ankles. Imagine making a "V" shape with your legs during this motion.

Step 4: Generate Propulsion

Using the outer sides of your fins, create a propulsive force by sweeping your legs outwards in the "V" motion. This movement will propel you backward through the water.

Step 5: Leg Recovery

After completing the back kick motion, bring your legs back together smoothly and simultaneously. Keep your knees slightly bent as your legs return to their streamlined position.

Step 6: Repeat and Coordinate

Practice the back kick motion repeatedly to develop muscle memory and coordination. Coordinate your arm movements with the back kick, using gentle sweeping motions to assist in maintaining balance and control.

Tips for Perfecting Back Kick:

  1. Master the Frog Kick first
  2. Focus on Smooth movement
  3. Practice in Calm waters
  4. Seek professional guidance

Mastering the back kick can significantly enhance your underwater agility and expand your finning repertoire. Remember, it is essential to first become proficient in the frog kick, as it lays the groundwork for mastering more advanced kicks like the back kick.

Video 4: Back Kick Without Fins


Video 5: Helicopter Kick


IMPORTANT:
Before venturing into the helicopter kick, ensure you have mastered the frog kick technique. The frog kick serves as a foundation, providing stability and maneuverability underwater.

Helicopter Kick Step-by-Step

Step 1: Body Positioning

Assume a horizontal position in the water, with your body parallel to the surface. Keep your arms comfortably extended forward to maintain balance during the helicopter kick.

Step 2: Leg Positioning

Position your legs in a streamlined manner, keeping them slightly bent at the knees.

Step 3: Helicopter Kick Motion

Start the helicopter kick by performing a swift and simultaneous rotation of your legs in opposite directions. Visualize your legs spinning like helicopter rotor blades.

Step 4: Generate Propulsion

As your legs rotate, create a propulsive force by pushing the water outward with the outer sides of your fins. This motion will propel you forward through the water.

Step 5: Recover and Prepare for Next Rotation

After completing the helicopter kick rotation, bring your legs back together smoothly and simultaneously. Prepare for the next rotation by positioning your legs in a streamlined manner.

Step 6: Repeat and Coordinate

Practice the helicopter kick motion repeatedly to develop muscle memory and coordination. Coordinate your arm movements with the helicopter kick to maintain balance and control throughout the rotation.

Tips for Perfecting Back Kick:

  1. Master the Frog Kick first
  2. Focus on Smooth movement
  3. Practice in Calm waters
  4. Seek professional guidance

The helicopter kick is an advanced finning technique that adds finesse and versatility to your underwater maneuvers. However, it is essential to first master the frog kick and back kick, as they lay the groundwork for successfully executing the helicopter kick.

Video 6: Comparison Finning Style Without Fins


Mastering various finning techniques is essential for seamless underwater navigation. While fins are our trusted companions, have you ever wondered if you could gracefully move without them?

In this captivating video below, we explore the possibility of performing the frog, back, and helicopter kick without fins, showcasing the power and efficiency of these finless kicks. Do take note that finless flutter kick unable to move the diver.

Video 7: Practice Frog Kick On Land


We'll show you a simple exercise to strengthen your leg muscles and get accustomed to the frog kick style. Whether on a bench, floor, or bed, this exercise targets your back and hip muscles while enhancing ankle flexibility. Join us as we dive into the intricacies of the frog kick and discover how to prepare your legs for underwater elegance!

Author:

Zaidah