This comprehensive instructional video breaks down every aspect of butterfly stroke mechanics, from body position and timing to detailed arm and leg technique. You'll learn the precise coordination between the two kicks per stroke cycle, proper breathing technique, and the complete arm stroke sequence from catch to recovery.
This guide introduces competitive butterfly technique for dedicated swimmers seeking comprehensive stroke development. Work closely with your instructor to assess individual readiness and modify progression based on physical capabilities and goals.
Using These Butterfly Videos for 50-Yard Mastery
These two videos provide a complete learning pathway from technique fundamentals to comfortable distance swimming. Here's how you should use them:
Start with Feel and Drills' Foundation Concepts
You will focus first on the "feeling" approach (0:04-0:16) - butterfly is about whole-body rhythm, not just arm and leg movements. The five priorities (0:16-0:57) give you a clear learning sequence: master chest flexibility and undulation first, then breathing timing, followed by hand entry technique. This video emphasizes that butterfly success comes from developing the wave-like body motion before perfecting individual stroke components.
Use Feel and Drills' Progression Exercises
You will practice the four specific exercises in order. The sculling drill (1:17-1:51) teaches you water feel and chest undulation. The dolphin-with-arms-at-sides drill (1:51-2:11) keeping your head up builds core body wave without arm coordination complexity. The "basketball" exercise (2:11-2:26) develops the stiff up-and-down motion that transitions into fluid swimming. Finally, the one-stroke-plus-underwater-kicks drill (2:26-2:39) bridges technique practice with actual swimming.
Apply Technical Guide's Framework
You will use this comprehensive breakdown to understand the complete stroke mechanics - the two-kick timing (0:48-1:03), proper arm recovery (3:22-4:07), and breathing coordination (1:53-2:26). The dolphin kick section (4:18-4:44) shows you the whip-like leg motion, while the complete stroke overview (4:51-4:55) provides the technical details needed for 50-yard endurance.
Path to 50-Yard Comfort
You will progress from mastering the body wave in short bursts, to linking 2-3 strokes, then building to 25 yards, and finally achieving the rhythm and efficiency needed for 50 yards. The key insight from both videos is that butterfly fluency comes from developing the undulating body motion first (Technical Guide: 0:17-0:41), then adding stroke components systematically.
