Swimming is a fascinating sport that encompasses various strokes, each showcasing its own distinct set of techniques and challenges. For those embarking on their swimming journey at a reputable swimming academy in Mackay, understanding the intricacies of different strokes is essential. Among the various swimming styles, two of them require swimmers to touch the water with two hands simultaneously, adding an extra layer of skill and precision to the movements. In this blog, we will dive into the details of these unique strokes and explore the beauty and complexity they bring to the world of swimming.
1. Butterfly Stroke:
The butterfly stroke is widely recognized as one of the most challenging yet mesmerizing swimming styles. In this stroke, swimmers must touch the water with both hands at the same time during the recovery phase of each stroke cycle. The butterfly stroke demands coordination, strength, and precise timing to execute the arm movements and leg kicks in unison.
The Arm Movement: The arms move symmetrically, propelling the swimmer forward in a wave-like motion. Both arms are brought forward above the water, then plunged into the water simultaneously, creating a powerful pull and push that propels the body through the water.
The Leg Kick: The leg kick plays a crucial role in maintaining the momentum in the butterfly stroke. Swimmers execute a dolphin kick, where both legs move together in a fluid, undulating motion, resembling the movements of a dolphin.
Breathing: Coordinating breathing with the arm movements is a challenge in butterfly. Swimmers need to take a breath during the arm recovery phase, lifting the head slightly above the water, before submerging their face for the underwater arm pull.
2. Breaststroke:
The breaststroke is another stroke that requires a simultaneous two-handed touch during the glide phase. While it may not have the same rapidity as the butterfly, the breaststroke demands precision and finesse in its movements.
The Arm Movement: The arm movement in breaststroke is unique as swimmers perform a circular motion with both arms simultaneously. After the hands touch the water, they extend forward, out, and around before meeting at the chest, ready for the next pull.
The Leg Movement: The leg kick in breaststroke is often referred to as the “frog kick.” Swimmers draw their legs up towards their chest and then kick outward and backward in a circular motion, mirroring the movement of a frog.
The Glide Phase: During the glide phase, swimmers must touch the water with both hands at the same time while fully extended. This phase is crucial for reducing resistance and maximizing the forward momentum before starting the next stroke cycle.
Conclusion:
In the world of swimming, mastering different strokes is an art that requires dedication, perseverance, and guidance from seasoned instructors. As swimmers embark on their aquatic journey at a reputable swimming academy in Mackay, they are exposed to the challenges and beauty of two unique strokes – the butterfly and breaststroke. The precision and skill required to touch the water with two hands simultaneously in these strokes add an extra layer of complexity to the sport. Whether it’s the wave-like grace of the butterfly or the elegant precision of the breaststroke, both strokes offer swimmers a chance to showcase their abilities and finesse in the water. So, at the renowned Jump Swim School Mackay, let the journey of mastering these two-handed touches be a stepping stone towards becoming proficient and confident swimmers, ready to conquer new aquatic horizons.
