Butterfly kick seating on the poolside

The butterfly kick, also known as the dolphin kick, is a fundamental movement in swimming, especially in butterfly stroke and underwater kicking. Performing it while seated on the poolside can be a useful drill for practicing the motion and improving technique.

Here’s how you can do it:

Seating Position:

Sit on the edge of the pool with your legs dangling in the water. Keep your back straight and your arms relaxed by your sides or resting on the poolside for support.

Leg Movement:

Start by straightening your legs out in front of you, slightly below the surface of the water. Keep your feet together and pointed.

Butterfly Kick:

Initiate the butterfly kick by pressing your legs down and together in a whipping motion up. Imagine your legs as a single unit, moving in a wave-like motion from your hips down to your feet.

Breathing:

Since you’re seated on the poolside, you won’t be fully submerged, but you can practice the breathing pattern by exhaling as your legs kick up and inhaling as they return to the starting position.

Practice:

Start with slow, controlled movements to get the technique right before gradually increasing the speed and power of your kicks.

Feedback:

If possible, have a coach or a friend observe your technique and provide feedback to help you improve.

Safety:

Be cautious not to slip off the poolside while performing this drill. Ensure that the poolside is dry and that you have a firm grip or support if needed.

Benefits:

Practicing the butterfly kick while seated can help improve your underwater kicking technique, build leg strength, and enhance overall coordination for butterfly stroke.

Remember to focus on proper form and technique rather than speed initially. As you become more comfortable with the movement, you can increase the intensity and speed of your kicks.