To Swim Backwards

Category

Library Item

Item no

24701

Title

To Swim Backwards, Figure 11 from The Art of Swimming

Description

A drawing of a naked figure immersed in water illustrating a swimming technique described in the 17th century volume, 'The Art of Swimming'.

Date

1699

Size

5.4 x 8.5 cm

Type

Etching

Location

Reference Library

The accompanying text reads: We go backwards when lying on the Back we push our self onward with our Feet and Legs; but do the contrary and advance forward we must, lying always on the Back, keep the Body extended at full length, in a straight line, the Breast inflated, so that part of the Back which is between the Shoulders must be concave (or hollow) and sunk down i'th Water, the Hands on the Belly.Being, I say, in this posture, you must lift up your Legs one after another, and draw them back with all the force you can towards your Hams, letting them fall into the water, for thus you will return to the place whence you came. This way is not only very pleasant, but also when you find your self weary sometimes with Swimming, and far distant from the Shore, it may be useful to rest your self and give you time to recruit your Spirits.

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Related subjects

Landscape > Water > Rivers and streams

People > Adults > Women

Sport and leisure > Activities > Swimming

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