Ban the backstroke technique in competitive swimming
Ban the backstroke technique in competitive swimming
The Issue
Swimming is a beloved sport that promotes physical fitness, mental well-being, and inspirational competition. However, the backstroke, one of the four main swimming styles, is impractical for races and carries potential risks and disadvantages that far outweigh its benefits. It is time for governing bodies of competitive swimming to consider banning the backstroke from competitive events.
The backstroke may offer variety in swimming, but it presents significant challenges. First and foremost, it is a stroke that is primarily swum blind. Swimmers are unable to see where they are going, increasing the risk of collisions with other swimmers or hitting the pool wall, possibly causing injuries. Furthermore, it is more susceptible to misjudgments during turns and finishes, leading to disqualifications that tarnish the spirit of fair competition.
Beyond safety concerns, there are the inequities introduced by the backstroke. This stroke often favors more experienced swimmers, creating a significant disadvantage for beginners and less experienced competitors. Additionally, while other strokes, such as freestyle or breaststroke, closely mimic natural human swimming movements, the backstroke's technique often bears little real-world application outside of the sport, limiting its practicality and utility.
The removal of backstroke from competitions would not only advance safety but also simplify events for swimmers, coaches, and officials alike. It would encourage a focus on more universally accessible and manageable swimming styles, promoting inclusivity and fairness in the sport.
We call upon major swimming associations, including the International Swimming Federation (FINA), USA Swimming, and other national bodies, to reevaluate the role of backstroke in competitive swimming. By doing so, we can ensure a sport that is not only safer but also more equitable and enjoyable for all participants.
Join us in this quest for improvement and support safer and fairer swimming competitions. Please sign this petition to advocate for the removal of the backstroke from competitive swimming events.
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The Issue
Swimming is a beloved sport that promotes physical fitness, mental well-being, and inspirational competition. However, the backstroke, one of the four main swimming styles, is impractical for races and carries potential risks and disadvantages that far outweigh its benefits. It is time for governing bodies of competitive swimming to consider banning the backstroke from competitive events.
The backstroke may offer variety in swimming, but it presents significant challenges. First and foremost, it is a stroke that is primarily swum blind. Swimmers are unable to see where they are going, increasing the risk of collisions with other swimmers or hitting the pool wall, possibly causing injuries. Furthermore, it is more susceptible to misjudgments during turns and finishes, leading to disqualifications that tarnish the spirit of fair competition.
Beyond safety concerns, there are the inequities introduced by the backstroke. This stroke often favors more experienced swimmers, creating a significant disadvantage for beginners and less experienced competitors. Additionally, while other strokes, such as freestyle or breaststroke, closely mimic natural human swimming movements, the backstroke's technique often bears little real-world application outside of the sport, limiting its practicality and utility.
The removal of backstroke from competitions would not only advance safety but also simplify events for swimmers, coaches, and officials alike. It would encourage a focus on more universally accessible and manageable swimming styles, promoting inclusivity and fairness in the sport.
We call upon major swimming associations, including the International Swimming Federation (FINA), USA Swimming, and other national bodies, to reevaluate the role of backstroke in competitive swimming. By doing so, we can ensure a sport that is not only safer but also more equitable and enjoyable for all participants.
Join us in this quest for improvement and support safer and fairer swimming competitions. Please sign this petition to advocate for the removal of the backstroke from competitive swimming events.
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Petition created on July 20, 2026