Straight Arm Freestyle: Elite Secret or Overhyped Technique?

Straight arm freestyle is everywhere — but is it actually fast, or just misunderstood? Dax and Elvis break down the truth behind straight arm freestyle: who it works for, who it hurts, and why copying what you see on TV might be slowing you down. This isn’t a drill video — it’s a real conversation about biomechanics, power transfer, shoulder stress, and why elite technique doesn’t automatically translate to age-group or masters swimming.

Inside this clip:

Why straight arm freestyle exploded at the elite level

The hidden strength and mobility requirements nobody talks about

How shoulder health factors into technique choice

Why most swimmers copy outcomes instead of mechanics

When straight arm freestyle actually makes sense

If you’ve ever wondered whether you should swim straight arm freestyle — this clip will save you years of trial and error.👇 Drop a comment: straight arm or high elbow — what do you swim?🌙 Night Swim PodcastWhen the pool lights go out, the real talk begins. Hosted by Dax Hill (NCAA champ, Texas Longhorns legend, high-performance technique guru @Reykli) and Elvis Burrows (Bahamian Olympian, national record holder, founder of Burrow's Best swimmer hair and skin care), Night Swim is unfiltered swim culture — NCAA battles, Olympic tea, training hacks, and pool-deck chaos. No scripts. No PR. Just two Black swimmers who’ve seen it all, saying what everyone else whispers.New episodes weekly. Grab your goggles, hit subscribe, and dive in.🎙️ Presented by Swimnerd. #NightSwimPod #Swimming