Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Practice Exam

What is the primary focus during the catch phase of the butterfly stroke?

1. Pulling hands towards the feet

2. Creating a circular path with hands

3. Synchronizing arm and leg movements

4. Optimizing breath control

The correct answer is: Creating a circular path with hands

The primary focus during the catch phase of the butterfly stroke is creating a circular path with the hands. This phase involves the swimmer positioning their hands in a way that allows them to efficiently catch the water. During the catch phase, the arms are extended forward, and as the hands enter the water, they should angle downwards and then outward in a circular motion. This motion helps to maximize the surface area of the hand that interacts with the water, enabling a more effective pull. A strong catch sets up the subsequent pull phase, where the swimmer generates propulsion through the power of their arms. Other aspects, such as pulling hands towards the feet or synchronizing arm and leg movements, are important components of the stroke, but they occur in different phases. Optimizing breath control is also vital in the butterfly stroke, but it is not a direct focus of the catch phase. The catch is specifically centered around how the hands initiate interaction with the water to ensure an effective stroke.