The butterfly stroke is a popular swimming style that requires a high level of arm and leg coordination. Its spelling, 'butterfly', is commonly pronounced as /ˈbʌtəflaɪ/, with the stressed syllable falling on the first 'u'. This word is composed of two segments: 'butter', which refers to the yellow dairy product, and 'fly', the winged insect. Together, they form a vivid image of a fluttering butterfly, similar to the arm movements required to perform the stroke.
The butterfly stroke is a competitive swimming stroke that is characterized by a symmetrical and simultaneous arm movement combined with a dolphin-like kick. It is one of the four major swimming strokes used in organized swimming competitions. The stroke involves a continuous wave-like motion of the entire body, making it distinct and easily recognizable.
In the butterfly stroke, the swimmer lies face down in the water with arms extended forward and slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Both arms are simultaneously brought in a circular manner out of the water, sweeping above the shoulders, and then entering the water in unison. This sweeping motion of the arms propels the swimmer through the water, producing forward propulsion.
The kick in the butterfly stroke is performed with both legs together, resembling a dolphin kick. The legs are bent at the hips and knees, and then straightened to create a powerful propulsion force. The kick is timed in coordination with the arm movement to maximize speed and efficiency.
The butterfly stroke demands strong upper body strength, flexibility, and coordination. It is considered a challenging stroke due to the high energy expenditure required to maintain the demanding arm and leg movements. It also requires an efficient breathing technique, as the swimmer typically takes a breath on every second or third stroke.
The butterfly stroke is characterized by its grace, strength, and elegance, resembling the flutter of butterfly wings. It is often considered an aesthetically pleasing stroke to watch, and it showcases the abilities of the swimmer in terms of speed and technique.
The word "butterfly stroke" stems from a combination of two key elements: "butterfly" and "stroke".
The term "butterfly" comes from the Old English word "buttorfleoge", which was a combination of "buttor" (butter) and "fleoge" (fly). In Old English, the word "butter" referred to a yellowish color, akin to the color of butter, and "fleoge" meant "fly". Over time, the term "butterfly" evolved to describe the insect with its distinctive fluttering wing movements.
When it comes to swimming, the butterfly stroke is characterized by a rhythmic and undulating motion resembling the movement of butterfly wings. As such, the stroke got its name due to the similarity with the butterfly's wing motion.
The word "stroke" refers to the particular method or technique used in swimming.