The Gathercole kick with board drill is used to train which aspect in breaststroke?

• A. Dolphin kick in butterfly.
• B. Arm pull strength in breaststroke.
• C. Kick timing in breaststroke.
• D. Breath control in breaststroke.

Answer: (C)

Kick timing in breaststroke is the focus. The Gathercole kick with board drill isolates the leg action and trains you to start and finish the frog kick at the precise moment in the stroke cycle, so the kick lines up with the arm recovery and body position for optimal propulsion. With a board, the arms stay forward and out of the way, letting you feel and refine the exact timing without interference from arm pulls. The result is a more synchronized, efficient breaststroke, helping you maintain propulsion through the transition from glide to kick. This drill isn’t primarily about arm strength or breathing, and it doesn’t target other strokes.