Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Practice Exam

At what point does the recovery phase of the butterfly stroke occur?

1. When feet are at highest point

2. When arms are completely submerged

3. When arms are out of the water

4. When the body is completely still

The correct answer is: When arms are out of the water

The recovery phase of the butterfly stroke is characterized by the moment when the arms are out of the water. This phase occurs after the arm pulls have been completed and the arms begin to lift above the surface to re-enter the water. The purpose of this movement is to allow the swimmer to generate forward motion efficiently while preparing for the next stroke. During this recovery phase, as the arms exit the water, the swimmer's body position and rhythm are crucial to maintaining speed and efficiency. The recovery helps in minimizing drag as the swimmer transitions into the next stroke cycle. Additionally, having the arms out of the water allows for a more forceful re-entry and helps set up a strong pull phase, which is essential for effective propulsion in the water. In contrast, the other phases or positions, such as when the feet are at the highest point or arms are completely submerged, pertain to different parts of the stroke cycle rather than the recovery phase itself. The moment when the body is completely still does not align with the active nature of the butterfly stroke, which requires continuous movement for effective swimming. Thus, the recovery phase specifically focuses on the transition of the arms out of the water to prepare for the next stroke.