Paddling

Question
I am a beginner of swimming. I am having some problem while paddling. I don't exactly understand whether i should bend my legs or keep it straight while paddling.If I keep them straight,they are somehow becoming stiff.Also I cannot keep my body straight while freestyle paddling.Please help.
Thanking you,
Shreyasi Ghosh

Answer
Hello Shreyasi!
Ok well it is not easy to get use to the form of freestyle or paddling immediately.. your knees should bend slightly and feet should be pointed like fins..your hips should also be straight but they do twist from side to side as your arms alternate to stroke.
Watch their form in this video..their feet sink to just below the surface of the water but kicking momentum keeps them there.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f6qIhkuzTx0&feature=related

As Far as arms.. high elbows when bringing the arms arm, keep fingers together and pull back the water during stroke.Also, Never lift your head straight up to breath because that stops you dead in your tracks, watch their breathing to the side..when one arm come up you can breath to that side.
I hope this helps!!