Now just to clear things up a start is from the point when the race starts to the point when you start doing your stroke. The start included both the dive and the streamline till you come up to the surface. But this page is for those who already know the basics of diving. And now I can help you become a great starter!
There are multiple things that go into starts. And if your competitively swimming you will be on a starting block(Which is pictured above). And there a five things you should consider. Stance, reaction, drive, flight, and entry.
Stance
Now your start will be on a block for competitive race. This means you will want your front foot at the edge of the block and your back foot under you like a sprinters stance. And there are two main types of stance. One where you put your weight on your front foot. And another where your weigh in on your back leg. There are benefits to each stance. The front weighted stance is usually favored for smaller or shorter swimmer. Its meant to get you into the water quicker. But it doesn’t get you much momentum or power. And the back weighted stance favors stronger more powerful swimmers. Personally i use this stance. It meant to shoot you out farther from the wall. It generates more power and it gets you farther without using a stroke. But it takes longer to start your strokes.
Reaction
Now this one is quite simple. You don’t have to be an Michael Phelps to be good at this. Just have a fast reaction time so you don’t waste valuable time realizing you gotta go. Just go when the gun goes off. And before you go listen to the start before you go so you can start right away without wasting time.
Drive
Now this is a very important thing to remember. You will want to shoot of that block like a cannon. You should utilize as much of your power as you can. You will want your legs to push up all the way till they become level with the rest of your body in the air. And shoot your arms out right after you leave the block. And make sure during the start you keep your elbows in and not out.
Flight
Now there isn’t much to tell you about while your in mid-air. All I can say is get your torso fully extended. Get your arms out in front of you for a streamline. And make sure you get your body in a straight line with your toes pointed out and your head tucked between your shoulders.
Entry
And last but not least your entry into the water. You want your hands to enter and pierce the water first. It is still very important you keep your body in a straight line. It is also very important that you don’t move your legs when you halfway in because you will other shoot towards the bottom of the pool or slow dramatically.
Swimming Tips 