Swim Strokes

There are a variety of swim strokes that you can learn. Practice is the key to getting comfortable with the strokes. Each stroke has benefits depending on what situation you need to use it in.

Arms:Freestyle- Intro to movement (Web*).mp4

Crawl Stroke

Crawl stroke or freestyle can be an easy way to move through the water if you can control your breathing. Remember to blow your air out from your nose and mouth under water before turning or lifting your head for a breath with just your mouth. This will allow your body to stay at the surface and continue forward momentum. The longer your head is above water, it takes more energy to keep swimming. Take two or three strokes with your head under while exhaling before grabbing another quick breath and pressing your forehead back down underwater. Try to keep your arms long and go at an easy pace so you don't tire yourself out.

Arms: Combined BK- Intro to movement (Web*).mp4

Combined Backstroke

Combined Backstroke is a swim stroke that expends minimal energy with simple arm and leg movements. This stroke is a for calm water and allows your face to be out of the water for easy breathing.


Sidestroke (Web*)

Side Stroke

Sidestroke is a relaxed stroke that can be used for long-distance swimming. It's done on one's side, with the face out of the water.


Breaststroke with flutter kick & PFD (Web*).mp4

Breaststroke and Flutter Kick

This is a great stroke to use with a life jacket on or it could be used to swim under water or on top of the water.