What this swimming skill is
In breaststroke and butterfly, swimmers breathe to the front rather than to the side. The breath has its own moment in the stroke. When it comes at the right time the stroke flows, and when it doesn't the swimmer stalls.
This skill comes after breathing comfortably to both sides in front crawl. Next in this area, your child learns why breath-holding games are risky. The full breaststroke and butterfly each have their own skills too.
Why it matters
Smoother swimming.
A well-timed breath stops the stop and start feeling many learners have in breaststroke.
Less tiring.
When the breath fits the stroke, your child uses less effort for the same distance.
A stroke for life.
Breaststroke is a favourite for relaxed swimming at every age, and good breathing makes it comfortable.
A fun new challenge.
Butterfly is an exciting goal for many children and teens, and it depends on a quick, well-timed breath.
Who it is for
Breaststroke breathing suits children, teens, adults and seniors. Butterfly breathing suits children, teens and adults who are learning butterfly, usually once they are comfortable with other strokes. Your child is ready when they know the basic arm and leg movements of the stroke. If you are learning as an adult, breaststroke is a popular choice, and good timing often makes it more comfortable.
Part 1 of 2
In breaststroke
The goal
Your child lifts the face to breathe as the arms pull, then puts it back in before the kick. The stroke flows, with a glide between breaths.
Why it matters
Breathing at the right moment keeps breaststroke moving forward, instead of stopping and starting.
What happens in lessons
Walking it through.
Your child practises the arm movement and the breath while walking in shallow water.
Saying the rhythm.
Your instructor uses a short rhyme, such as pull and breathe, kick and glide, to give the stroke a beat.
A few strokes at a time.
Your child swims short stretches, getting the face back in before the kick.
A whole length.
The breaths are strung together until your child swims a length with an even rhythm.
How you can help between lessons
- On land, stand and practise the arms, lifting the chin as the hands come in and lowering it as they reach forward.
Common questions
- Why does my child's breaststroke stop and start?
- Usually the breath and the kick happen at the same moment, so the body stalls. Getting the face back in before the kick smooths much of it out. That timing is the first thing lessons work on.
- Can I swim breaststroke with my head above water the whole time?
- Many adults do, and it is a fine way to swim for comfort. It tends to be slower and can tire the neck. Your instructor can help with either style.
- Is butterfly too hard for my child?
- Butterfly takes strength and timing, so it usually comes after the other strokes. Children who enjoy it often pick up the breathing well with short swims. Your instructor never pushes it before the basics are in place.
- How often do you breathe in butterfly?
- It varies. Many learners breathe every stroke at first. What matters most is that the breath stays low and quick.
