Dryland Tip: Horizontal Press

By G. John Mullen of SwimmingScience.net and CenterofOptimalRestoration.com, Swimming World correspondent

SANTA CLARA, California, October 6. G. John Mullen, one of Swimming World's dryland correspondents, is back with another dryland training tip video that focuses on the Horizontal Press, which focuses on freestyle and backstroke strength.

Purpose: Long axis strokes require contralateral (opposite) arm and leg coordination to enhance rotational velocity through the water. The horizontal press forces gluteal and hamstring activation with scapular stability and strength, optimizing contralateral strength.

Direction: Hold one leg at the top of a glute-ham machine or have a partner stabilize one leg while your hips lie on a bench. Contract your glutes, hamstrings and abdominals while you press a light weight overhead. If the athlete exhibits shoulder pain or has shoulder pain, the press can be converted to a row. Also, if the athlete has back pain, confirm they are stabilizing with their glutes and abdominals, not hinging/arching with their low back.

Dr. G. John Mullen is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. At USC, he was a clinical research assistant at USC performing research on adolescent diabetes, lung adaptations to swimming, and swimming biomechanics. G. John has been featured in Swimming World Magazine, Swimmer Magazine, and the International Society of Swim Coaches Journal. He is currently the strength and conditioning coach at Santa Clara Swim Club, owner of the Center of Optimal Restoration and creator of Swimming Science.

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