Missy Franklin: Using her height to her advantage

Missy Franklin burst onto the world swimming stage last year at the World Championships in Shanghai, where she won three golds, a silver and a bronze at age 16. Click through the buttons to see her gold-medal-winning backstroke form.

Using all her weapons

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Sources: USA Swimming, media reports, Times reporting

Credits: Graphics reporting by Julie Sheer. Graphic by Matt Moody. Programming by Anthony Pesce.

Published: Aug. 1, 2012

Missy Franklin: Using her height to her advantage

Using all her weapons

Franklin's height and large wingspan give her an advantage in the water

Franklin's height and large wingspan give her an advantage in the water

Franklin's height and large wingspan give her an advantage in the water

Her big feet provide a strong kick

Her big feet provide a strong kick

Her big hands allow for a strong pull

Her big hands allow for a strong pull

Good roll technique sets up turn

She times the flip so her feet touch the wall at the right time

Strong legs give her good thrust off the wall

Strong legs give her good thrust off the wall

Smooth transition allows her to return quickly to her normal stroke pace

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