Definition

Noun: A swimming kick characterized by a rapid, continuous up-and-down leg motion, performed with the legs held relatively straight and close together. It is a fundamental leg movement used in the front crawl (freestyle) and backstroke swimming strokes.

Usage

The term "flutter kick" is used to describe the specific leg action in swimming. It is a technical term in aquatics and swimming instruction. * The swimmer's flutter kick provided steady propulsion while her arms recovered. * A strong flutter kick is essential for maintaining a horizontal body position in the water. * The coach focused on correcting the ankle flexibility in her flutter kick.

Advanced Usage

• "to flutter-kick" (verb, less common): The act of performing this kick.
  • She began to flutter-kick vigorously to keep her legs from sinking.

Variants and Related Words

• Flutter (verb): To move with quick, light, irregular motions. The swimming kick derives its name from this verb, describing the rapid motion of the feet.
• Kick (noun): A general term for a propulsive leg movement in swimming. The "flutter kick" is a specific type of swimming kick.
• Dolphin Kick: A different, undulating swimming kick used in the butterfly stroke.
• Whip Kick: A different, bending-and-whipping kick used in the breaststroke.

Synonyms

• Freestyle Kick (when used in the context of the front crawl stroke)
• Backstroke Kick (when used in the context of the backstroke)

Related Phrases

• Two-beat flutter kick: A rhythm where one leg kick is paired with each arm pull.
• Six-beat flutter kick: A faster, more continuous rhythm common in competitive freestyle.

Noun

1. a swimming kick; the legs are moved rapidly up and down without bending the knees