Glossary of Swimming Terms

Question 1

One arm stays extended above your head as the other arm strokes. The stationary arm is your “anchor,” serving as a place for the stroking arm to return to, and promoting long strokes.

Answer 1

Anchor

Question 2

Efficient swimmers roll from side to side as they stroke. This allows them to churn through the water like a propeller.

Answer 2

Body roll

Question 3

is the position that gives a swimmer the least drag from the water by reducing frontal surface area. _________ the hands are stacked, arms are stretched flexed and rigid above the head with the shoulders pressed against the swimmer’s ears.

Answer 3

Streamline

Question 4

During the recovery phase, the recovering arm should be “floppy,” with the fingertips hanging just above the surface.

Answer 4

Windmilling

Question 5

is any time that you are not stroking (or kicking) and relying primarily on momentum to move forward.

Answer 5

Glide

Question 6

is the part of your stroke from when your hand enters the water above your head to when your hand leaves the water by your hip. ________ generates the most propulsive force in swimming (more than kicking). Concentrate on grabbing as much water as possible while pulling.

Answer 6

Pull

Question 7

is any time when your arm is above water. Since no propulsive force is generated during the recovery, keep the recovering arm as loose and limp as possible to conserve energy.

Answer 7

Recovery