Swimming: Stroke Development Butterfly

The butterfly technique is the most modern of all four swimming strokes. Developed from breaststroke, it has similarities as regards undulation and the dolphin type action that occurs. Undulation will occure when the head and upper body rises and falls in realtion to the kick, pull and breathing pattern. Develop a good streamline position by placing your face in the water before the hands enter at the front of the stroke. The hips are swept up to the water surface as the head and face drops down; At this point the arms are being swept forwards over the top of the water with the help of the second leg kick. There are always two leg kicks to every one arm pull within the full stroke cycle. Develop rhythm and timing rather than pure strength and power.

To improve your Butterfly technique, swim one full stroke then two strokes with your right arm and two strokes with your left arm and repeat. You will be able to swim further distances as there will be less fatigue through the shoulders and will develop good rhythm and timing.

Kicking Action
A simultaneous kick starting at your hips with the hips lifting and lowering with full undulation and movement down through the legs with knees bending and straightening and the feet and toes pointed.

Elite Body Position
Butterfly is the most modern of all the four competitive strokes and has similarities to breaststroke with the undulation and dolphin type action that occurs. Undulation will occur when the head and upper body rises and falls in relation to the kick, pull and breathing pattern. Develop a good streamline position by placing your face in the water before the hands enter at the front of the stroke. The hips are swept up to the water surface as the head and face drop onto the water surface, at which point the arms are swept forwards over the top of the water. Develop rhythm and timing rather than just strength and power.