1. On the Side
The sidestroke is fairly easy to learn so it is a great starter stroke. Although the sidestroke isn't one that is typically learned for use in competition, there are several advantages to learning it. The sidestroke can be done for long periods of time without being exhausting. The stroke puts less stress on the joints of the shoulder, lower back and knees so it is a helpful stroke for anyone that is rehabilitating from injuries in these areas. The stroke is also one that is often learned in lifeguard training since it is easy to do and pull someone through the water with you.
2. Choose Your Side
Unlike other swim strokes, which are done on your back or stomach, the sidestroke is done while on one of your sides. This can be a difficult position to hold because it is easy to rock back and forth towards your back and stomach. This movement back and forth creates more water resistance and will slow you down. It is usually easier to lie in the water on your dominate side. This means that for people who are right handed, lying on your right side will be easier to do in the water; for left-handed people it will be the left side.
3. Arms Out
Extend the arm that is on the side that you are lying on full outward parallel to the floor of the pool. Your shoulder will create a natural place for your to place your head. Keep your other arm next to your body near the top of the water. Stretch your body so that you are in a straight line from the tips of your fingers to your feet.
4. Kick Like Scissors
Use a scissor kick to propel yourself forward in the water. Keep your legs straight in the water with your knees bent slightly. Don't let your knees bend a lot while you are doing the kick since this will create more drag and make the kick more difficult. As you move one leg forward in the water toward the front of your body, move the other leg backwards in the water. Reverse the direction of both your legs to keep up the kick. This motion is similar to the way a pair of scissors moves as it opens and closes which is where the name of the kick comes from.
5. Pulling On the Side
Begin with the arm that is under your body in the water to start the pull for the side stroke. Pull your arms straight downwards in the water. When you arm is at a 45-degree angle from your body, bend your elbow and bring your hand upwards toward your chest in a circular motion. At the same time, bring the arm that is on the top of the water along your body upwards toward your chest. Move both arms back to their original positions, sliding the arm under your body through the water and using the other arm to pull through the water until the stroke is finished and both arms are in their original positions.
