How to Tread Water Eggbeater Style

Co-authored by Jacob Siegel

Last Updated: February 14, 2024

This is the most efficient method of treading water. It's used by water polo players but is great for anyone who wants to tread water.

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At the same time keep your arms in front of you about shoulder width apart moving back and forth left to right to keep you balanced and to help keep you afloat. ^{[3]
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Spread your legs out as far as you comfortably can, and bring them your quads up as if you were sitting in a chair,(approx 90 degree angle between legs and abs) and kick each leg separately in a circular motion (Right leg in counter-clockwise motion, left leg in clockwise motion). ^{[4]
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It may take some time learning to keep your hips stable while doing this, so focus on that or have someone hold your hips in place.

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Question

I find it hard to keep my legs straight when swimming. What can I do?

Community Answer

Just remember to point your toes more, but only a little. Otherwise, you could get cramp.

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How long does it take to get used to the egg beater?

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It can vary. Just keep practicing and using it, and it will become more natural.

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When I kick to tread, I start drowning in water. What do I do?

Community Answer

Make sure that when you are eggbeating that you keep your feet flexed (pull your toes upwards towards your leg) and that your legs are moving inward. Your right leg will turn counter-clockwise, and your left leg will turn clockwise. Also, move your hands back and forth with your palms facing downwards (like you are spreading butter on toast): this is called sculling.

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Tips

Do drills on land to work on your kick, then try them in the water.

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Use a pool noodle at first so you can go slowly.

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Learn the breaststroke kick first, then transition to eggbeater (alternating breaststroke kick).

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Warnings

As tiring as it is, treading in this fashion is the most efficient way to keep yourself afloat, and consistent work will adapt your legs to the action.

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When you first learn this it can be tiring, but after doing it for a couple of days you get used to it and it becomes highly effective. If you are just learning it do not try to stay in very deep water for too long!

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Be alert for fatigue. If you sense yourself getting exhausted, switch to a lower energy method of staying afloat.

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How to Tread Water Eggbeater Style

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