Learn to Swim | Intermediate LESSON 4 - BUTTERFLY
If swimming styles were superheroes, butterfly would be Superman. Butterfly is the most powerful of all the competitive strokes. Perhaps for this reason it is also the least known and least swam of the 4 strokes. Fun fact, breaststroke is the favorite stroke of the VP Marc Donatelli! Basic butterfly is taught in Intermediate Swimmer Program,
In the MISWay, basic butterfly is introduced the moment swimmers demonstrate that they can swim by themselves across the pool (sometimes even sooner). When teaching basic butterfly, it is important to teach the body positioning, and leg and arm movements separately, and then progressively combine them to develop the full stroke.
The legs and arms are introduced using basic 3-step progressions for each: for example for legs, kinesthetic leg movements while holding the stairs, followed by kicking with the flutterboard, and then streamline kick. Then combine arms and legs and start getting those reps in!
When complete, the swimmer should be able to swim at least 2 lengths without stopping with simultaneous and basic butterfly arm & leg movements. Note that proper breathing technique (simultaneous breathing while pulling), while encouraged, is not a requirement at the Intermediate Swimmer level.
By focusing on basic movements (core techniques) swimmers get in the much-needed repetitions to establish familiarity and good swimming habits at younger ages. The basic movements will later be perfected and tuned for speed, power and competitive swimming in our Advanced Swimmer Program.
The same core techniques should be consistently reinforced throughout, like wave-like body motion and straight arm recovery out of the water. Alternate your teaching methods (visual, verbal, mirroring, kinesthetic) and look to see where your swimmer responds best. Remember to focus on basic technical corrections, and above all encouragement and motivation!
*Remember there is no substitute for having a professional swim instructor teach you, and to exercise water safety at all times when following these videos. Swim safely, everyone!
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