Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Practice Exam

What key action happens during the finish phase of the butterfly stroke?

1. Continuing the pull and bringing hands out of water

2. Keeping arms close to the body

3. Making large circular movements with the body

4. Resting briefly before the next stroke

The correct answer is: Continuing the pull and bringing hands out of water

During the finish phase of the butterfly stroke, the key action involves continuing the pull and bringing the hands out of the water. This phase is crucial as it concludes the stroke cycle and sets up for the recovery of the arms for the next stroke. As the hands are pulled back through the water in a wide, circular motion, they finish by moving towards the hips and then exiting the water. This action optimizes the strength of the stroke and maintains momentum, allowing for an efficient transition to the recovery phase where the arms are lifted back to the front for the next stroke. The finish phase is characterized by a powerful pull followed by an effective exit from the water, which helps swimmers maintain their speed and rhythm. Other actions, like keeping arms close to the body or making large circular movements with the body, aren’t primary focuses of the finish; instead, they refer to other aspects of the stroke technique. Resting briefly before the next stroke is not characteristic of the finish phase, as the butterfly stroke requires continuous movement and coordination.