What this swimming skill is
After the arms push back under the water, they come out together and swing forward just above the surface. It is a loose, low swing, like a bird opening its wings, not a big lift. The hands then land in front, ready for the next stroke.
This follows the butterfly arm pull. Next your child adds the breath, and then puts the whole stroke together.
Why it matters
The butterfly look.
This is the moment most people picture when they think of butterfly, and children are often thrilled to do it.
Keeping the stroke moving.
A smooth swing keeps your child travelling forward instead of stalling.
Using less energy.
A low, relaxed swing is far less tiring than lifting the arms high.
Who it is for
Children, teens and adults work on this once they can finish the arm pull past the hips. Children often manage it by being bold and swinging freely. If you are learning as an adult, shoulder flexibility varies a lot, and your instructor adapts the swing to what feels comfortable.
Both arms at once
The goal
Your child brings both arms out of the water together and swings them forward. They repeat the swing without stopping, keeping on the move.
Why it matters
Getting both arms over together is what makes butterfly a real stroke. Keeping it going without stopping builds the rhythm for swimming it further.
What happens in lessons
Trying the swing standing up.
Your instructor shows the swing, and your child tries it standing in the water, leaning forward a little.
One stroke at a time.
Your child pushes off, does a single arm stroke and swing, then stands up. Short tries keep it successful.
Linking a few together.
Once one swing feels good, your child joins a few together, with your instructor close by.
Loose and low.
Your instructor encourages relaxed arms skimming the water, which makes the swing feel lighter.
How you can help between lessons
- Play 'wings' at home: arms by the sides, swing them out wide like wings, then round to point ahead.
Common questions
- Why does the arm swing look like a struggle?
- Most often the push ends early, so the arms are still in the water when they try to swing. Finishing the push and adding the second kick usually make a big difference.
- Do the arms have to come fully out of the water?
- While learning, arms that brush the surface are fine. They clear it more as the timing improves.
- What if my shoulders are not very flexible?
- Many people, especially adults, have tight shoulders. The swing can be a little wider and lower to suit, and your instructor never pushes into discomfort.
- Should the arms be straight?
- Fairly straight but relaxed. Loose arms swing more easily than stiff ones.
