Describe the dolphin kick in butterfly.

• A. A kick driven by ankle flexion only.
• B. A wave-like movement initiated from the hips, with knees bending and extending.
• C. A straight leg kick from the knees.
• D. An arm-only motion with no leg involvement.

Answer: (B)

The dolphin kick in butterfly is an undulatory, wave-like movement generated by the body’s midsection. Power comes from the hips and torso, creating a ripple that travels down the spine to the legs. As the wave moves, the knees bend and then extend in a synchronized sequence, allowing the feet to drive water backward with a continuous, fluid motion. This coordinated hip-driven ripple keeps both legs working together, rather than relying on just the ankles, knees alone, or an arm-only action. That’s why the best description is a wave-like movement initiated from the hips, with knees bending and extending.