Butterfly

Butterfly is the most unique stroke out of the four main strokes. Breaststroke and Front crawl are easy for beginning swimmers to start. They can perform the strokes with ease. Backstroke just takes a little more getting used to as your on your back. But by far this is the most difficult stroke. It requires the most skill, best technique, and the strongest muscles for this stroke. And usually it favors the taller and bigger swimmers. If you are really skinny and or short you have a natural disadvantage in this competition.

Originally Butterfly was performed in the event of breaststroke. They weren’t differentiated at first. But in 1952 they were finally separated into their own separate events. And the 1956 Olympics were the first olympics where the two events were separated. And that was the first time butterfly became its own competitive event. The stroke originally came from some swimmers in Australia and were first shown off in the olympics. But some believe it was originated elsewhere. That includes some saying it was only made up as a prank. But no one really knows for sure who the original creator is.

Now here are somethings you will want to know to decrease your swimming time and help with your swimming form.

• You want to keep your body as flat as you can. And while performing this stroke you will want to lead with the crown of your head. And you shouldn’t look up as it will damage your neck and cause lots of drag. But with that said for those who haven’t mastered their breathing you won’t be killed by a little head raise for your breaths.
• Stay near the surface of the water. Not too high so your kick loses all of its leverage. But not too deep to wear your shoulders can’t reload out of the water.
• When you are reloading make sure your shoulders stay completely out of the water. If your arms stay submerged you will not only be slowed by drag but your arms will also be pushing yourself backwards.
• During this event you must keep your legs together or you will be disqualified. This is one of the few things people struggle with. But after a little practice it become natural.
• Breathing is a little awkward in the stroke for those who are newer to trying the stroke. But if you can just keep your neck straight and lead with the crown of your head your head should naturally raise. And you should have enough time to inhale air cause if your are strong enough your arms will propel your upper body above the water.