Clarification on Application of Swimming Rule 8-2-2c

The NFHS has received a few contacts from state associations seeking clarification on the application of Rule 8-2-2c. Some of you may be asked to provide an interpretation as to when the butterfly (dolphin) kick is permitted within the breaststroke. Most of these questions are presented due to different language within the rules of the NFHS and USA Swimming.

Rule 8-2-2c now permits a single downward butterfly (dolphin) kick at the start or turn. For clarification, the butterfly (dolphin) kick can be executed at any point after the initiation of the arm stroke but before the breaststroke kick, during the first stroke after the start or turn.