ALEXANDER POPOV (THE ULTIMATE SPRINTING MACHINE)
Sometimes, the best swimming lesson is simply to watch a master at work. And when it comes to the freestyle sprint, there are few better masters than Alexander Popov.
Known as the "Russian Rocket," Popov possessed one of the most beautiful and technically efficient strokes the world has ever seen. This post is a tribute to his form. A video masterclass in how to combine power with a relaxed, zen-like composure in the water.
Dive Into: Learning from the Russian Rocket
- Who Was Alexander Popov?
- 🎥 The Video: A Masterclass in Freestyle
- How to Apply What You've Learned
- Frequently Asked Questions
Who Was Alexander Popov?
The ultimate sprinting machine from Russia, Alexander Popov used to have one of the most beautiful and most efficient strokes out there.
His coach, Gennadi Touretski, is a coaching mastermind who did a tremendous job of getting Popov to be the best sprinter in the world.
While Alexander is a very tall guy, his technique is what truly set him apart. Watching him swim is a pleasure, as he seems to move with effortless power.
🎥 The Video: A Masterclass in Freestyle
No comment. Just watch and learn from one of the best swimmers of all time.
As you watch, pay close attention to these key elements of his perfect freestyle form:
- Head Position: Perfectly still and neutral.
- Body Rotation: Powerful and driven from the hips.
- High Elbow Recovery: Relaxed and efficient over the water.
- High Elbow Catch: A deep, powerful early vertical forearm to grab the water.
How to Apply What You've Learned
To learn how to swim with the efficiency of Alexander Popov, you need to master the fundamentals. The following posts will give you the technique and drill tips to get started:
- How to learn proper freestyle technique
- Body and head position in swimming
- How to move your arms during freestyle
Popov's high-elbow technique is still a gold standard for efficient distance and middle-distance freestyle. However, for all-out sprints, the modern, shoulder-driven, straight-arm recovery has largely taken over.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Alexander Popov?
Alexander Popov, known as the 'Russian Rocket,' is a legendary Russian swimmer and one of the greatest sprinters of all time. He is celebrated for having one of the most technically beautiful and efficient freestyle strokes in the history of the sport.
What was so special about Alexander Popov's freestyle technique?
His technique was a masterclass in efficiency. It was characterized by a perfectly still head position, a powerful hip-driven rotation, a relaxed high-elbow recovery, and a deep, powerful high elbow catch (early vertical forearm).
What is the most important lesson to learn from watching Popov swim?
The most important takeaway is the appearance of being in a 'relaxed zen state.' He demonstrates that true speed comes from eliminating unnecessary tension and movement, allowing for maximum power application with minimal effort.
Who was Alexander Popov's coach?
His coach was Gennadi Touretski, a coaching mastermind who was instrumental in developing Popov's flawless and powerful technique, cementing his place as the best sprinter in the world.
Can I learn to swim like Alexander Popov?
While his physical attributes were unique, any swimmer can learn from the principles of his technique. By studying his form and working on drills that promote a still head, strong rotation, and a high elbow catch, you can make your own stroke much more efficient.
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Comments (9)
also, what's 'DPS'?
DPS means 'Distance Per Stroke' which in other words is how far does a swimmer move per one stroke. If I were you I wouldn't be too concerned with this. Think of it more in a way of how many strokes you take in one length of the pool. The more strokes you take, the shorter DPS and of course the less strokes, the longer DPS.
To the head out of water swim. This is called the 'tarzan' or 'water polo swim'. It is used as a drill to get some more kicking workout and also to practice your catch in the water. Finally, it can also be used to strengthen your posture as it is quite tough to keep your chin out of the water all the time.
Hope this helps. Let me know if you are wondering more things and I can post an article about it.