Swimming: Stroke Development Butterfly

Elite Pulling Pattern
A simultaneous double arm circling action, starting the pull with arms out in front no more than shoulder width apart, face on the water with hands entering the water in front of the shoulders; Pulling in and under the body through past the hips and costume line, at which point breathing takes place by pushing the chin forward clear of the water surface, elbows and hands then lift out of the water and sweep forwards over the water surface, as the hands are swept forwards, after the breath, so the face drops onto the water surface to help lift the hips, re-entry of the hands in front of the shoulders will then take place for another stroke cycle. The pulling pattern underwater is with slightly bent elbows to create more power and leverage.

Body Position
Undulating dolphin like motion through the
water and stroke cycle whilst lying on your
front.

Pulling Pattern
A simultaneous double arm circling action with
hands entering the water in front of the
shoulders approximately shoulder width apart,
after the underwater pull the hands lift over
the water surface to the front of the stroke for
the next pool.

Kicking Action
A simultaneous kick starting at the hips with
movement down through the legs to the feet
and toes pointed. Always keeping legs and feet
close together.