How To Swim Butterfly Stroke

Correct arm technique keeps the leg kick and body movement balanced

The arm action for butterfly stroke is a continuous simultaneous movement that requires significant upper body strength.



The action of the arms is similar to that of front crawl and the underwater catch, down sweep and upsweep parts draw a typical keyhole shape through its movement path.

Entry

The entry of the hands into the water should be finger tips first, leading with the thumb. Fingers should be together with palms flat and facing outwards. Arms should be stretched forward with a slightly bent elbow. Entry should be with arms extended inline with the shoulders.

Catch and down sweep

The pitch of the hands changes to a deeper angle with hands almost vertical. The catch and down sweep should begin just outside the shoulder line. Palms remain facing in the direction of travel. The elbow should bend to about 90 degrees to provide the extra power required. The hands sweep in a circular movement similar to breaststroke, but in a downwards path.

Upsweep

The pitch of the hands changes to face out and upwards towards the water surface. Elbows extend fully to straighten the arms and hands towards the thighs.

Recovery

Hands and arms must clear the water on recovery in accordance with ASA Law. Arms and hands should exit the water little finger facing upwards. Arms must clear the surface as they are thrown over and forwards. Palms remain facing outwards, naturally giving a thumb-first entry.

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