How to Coach the Butterfly Swim Stroke

The butterfly swimming stroke is so named because it resembles the flight of a butterfly. The arms are pushed out and forward while the legs go up and down at the same time. Done correctly, this swimming stroke is both graceful and fast. Learning the butterfly stroke does not have to be difficult. There is no reason why you should not teach and learn the stroke in a slow and fun way.

Instructions

    • 1

      Explain to your student the idea of the butterfly stroke and how it is done. Demonstrate to her the stroke as you explain each action. Let the student practice the stroke a few times on the side of the pool until he fully understands the idea of the stroke.

    • 2

      Ask the student to stand at the side of the pool. Tell him to place his toes at the edge of the pool. Instruct him to hold both of his arms above his head, holding them against the ears. Have him bend his body from the waist.

    • 3

      Guide the student as he holds his hands in front of him so they are touching at the thumbs. His palms must be face down and the fingers slightly bent downward.

    • 4

      Tell the student to move his hands down slowly and continue to lower them until they pass the hips. Tell him to continue to bring both arms around as though he was making a circle. He should bring his hands above his head in a sweeping motion while keeping his hands relaxed and return to the start position. Ask the students to keep doing the movement until he becomes comfortable.

    • 5

      Let the student do the arm strokes in water. Have him jump into the water with his arms extended, just the way he practiced. His hands should begin above his head and come around until they are again above his head.

    • 6

      Instruct the student to kick his legs using a short up and down motion with most of the weight of the movement being on the bottom of the legs. The toes should point downwards a bit. The legs are the directors of the swim and will keep the swimmer moving forward and add speed to the swim.

    • 7

      Ask the student to raise his head and breathe after every two strokes. He may have to breathe more at the beginning as he gets used to the movement. Let him practice, gradually building up speed.