How to Swim the Inverted Butterfly Stroke

There are numerous swimming strokes that you can practice, ranging in level of difficulty. The inverted butterfly may be one of the most difficult strokes to master, yet when performed properly, it is also one of the most elegant and gives your entire body a fantastic workout. With a few simple steps you can begin practicing today.

Instructions

    • 1

      Float on your back in the pool with the top of your head facing in the direction you would like to swim. Lift your head just enough that you can breathe; however, the further that you can place your head in the water, the faster you will be able to swim the inverted butterfly stroke.

    • 2

      Place your hands with your fingertips together just below your navel and begin to perform a dolphin kick. In the dolphin kick, place your feet and ankles together and kick together in small, smooth motions. You may want to practice the dolphin kick both face up and face down before you attempt to swim the inverted butterfly stroke.

    • 3

      Pick up your hands, moving them with fingertips together up overhead. When your hands hit the water above your head, separate your hands and bring then down hard and fast to your side, returning to the original position below your navel.

    • 4

      Practice the inverted butterfly stroke slowly at first, picking up speed as you become comfortable. Once mastered, you should be able to perform about four dolphin kicks in the time it takes to lift and lower your hands. Have patience, as this is a difficult stroke to swim.