THE IMPORTANCE OF THE BUTTERFLY KICK

 As we have pointed out on other occasions, the butterfly is the most difficult style to execute correctly because it requires more energy, flexible strength and coordination with Lifeguard Class.

The first two interact more with each other to perform the stroke properly. Let's see why.

One of the common mistakes in butterfly stroke, and which also makes it difficult to swim for a long time without stopping, is to stroke with one less leg shake.

Although each stroke requires two kicks, many swimmers learning the stroke only take one kick, so they tire sooner and are less efficient.

The first leg shake, just before the hands enter the water, is shorter and less powerful.

At that point of slower speed where the hands stop the momentum of the body, the kick offers propulsion and raises the hips to allow the arms to start the thrust phase

The second kick, as soon as the thrust phase is over, is longer and more powerful than the first and helps to raise the hips sunk by the movement of the arm again

This prolonged and intense effort, in combination with the final part of the push with the arms, results in the moment of maximum acceleration.

What happens if you only do a leg kick?

When you lack the strength to push back with your arms, your hands come out of the water mid-stroke and there's no time for the second leg kick.

To avoid that failure you should focus on the push phase (in addition to practicing the shake), making sure to continue it until both arms are fully extended before starting the recovery phase.

If the movement makes you too tired, shorten the stroke phases, rest one arm at a time, and do longer recovery intervals.

In case you want to dedicate some time regularly to learning the butterfly, we offer you a simple technical routine that will allow you to train correctly without overexertion and to concentrate as much as possible on the amplitude of the thrust with the arms and the force of the kick with American Lifeguard Association Miami.

Once you've learned to coordinate your legs and arms and develop the strength to push yourself off with your hands, butterfly swimming will be no mystery to you.