Describe the arm action in stroke analysis.

• A. Entry at 3 & 9
• B. 11 & 1 entry with little finger first, elbow bend ~90°, and straight arm recovery
• C. Fist throughout
• D. Arm fully extended during recovery

Answer: (B)

In stroke analysis, arm action is about how the hand enters the water, how the catch is developed with the elbow at a productive angle, and how the recovery position minimizes drag while keeping the stroke efficient. The best pattern describes entering with the little finger side first from a shallow front path (roughly around the entry zone near the body) so the water is engaged early and the hand can set up a strong catch. Then the elbow bends to about 90 degrees as the hand and forearm begin the pull, creating a favorable angle to push water backward for propulsion. Finally, keeping the recovery with the arm straight helps maintain a streamlined body position and reduces drag as the hand returns to the front for the next stroke.

Other options don’t fit as well because they describe less effective entry alignment, no grip or catch, or a recovery that increases drag rather than preserving streamlining.