BUTTERFLY ARM RECOVERY RULES CLARIFICATION - posted 6/17/2010
USA Swimming has released a rules clarification on the butterfly arm recovery.
From: Bruce W. Stratton, Chair, Rules & Regulations Committee
Subject: Interpretation of USA Swimming Rules and Regulations Article 101.3.2 (Butterfly)
It has come to the attention of the Rules & Regulations Committee that there appears to be a lot of inconsistency in the application of Article 101.3.2 as it relates to the recovery of the arms in the butterfly stroke. In an effort to provide some clarity and consistency, the Rules & Regulations Committee would like to reiterate its interpretation of the proper application of 101.3.2.
Article 101.3.2 requires that, in the butterfly stroke, “both arms” must be brought forward “over the water" and pulled back simultaneously. For purposes of Article 101.3.2, as it relates to the recovery of the arms in the butterfly stroke, it is the interpretation of the USA Swimming Rules & Regulations Committee that the “arm” is that portion of the body which extends from the shoulder to the wrist. It is also the interpretation of the Committee that "over the water" means that the arm, as defined above, must break the surface of the water during the recovery phase of each stroke.
If you have any questions regarding the above, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Bruce W. Stratton, Chair
USA Swimming Rules & Regulations Committee
The recovery is that portion of the stroke that begins at the end of the pull and ends when the swimmer begins the next pull. Although it will require judgment and common sense on the part of the official regarding the recovery, if part way through the recovery, the swimmers arms no longer break the surface of the water, it would be cause for disqualification