Swimming Style Starts: Facing the Pool Wall

This explanation focuses on identifying a specific swimming style based on its unique starting procedure. The question asks which swimming style begins with the swimmer entering the water facing the wall of the pool.

Understanding Swimming Starts

Swimming races typically begin with a specific type of start that varies depending on the stroke. The starting position and action are crucial for a fair and efficient beginning to the race. We will examine the starts of the common swimming strokes to determine which one matches the description provided.

Analyzing the Swimming Style Starts

• Breaststroke: The breaststroke start usually involves swimmers standing on the deck behind the starting platform or in the water, facing away from the wall. They push off from the wall or the starting block. The primary action is a forward dive or push-off, not facing the wall upon entry.
• Freestyle: Similar to breaststroke, the freestyle start commonly involves swimmers on a starting block, poised to dive forward. They face the water, away from the wall they will push off from after a turn. The initial start is a dive into the pool.
• Backstroke: The backstroke start is unique. Swimmers begin in the water, facing the pool wall. They hold onto the gutter or starting grips with their feet braced against the wall. At the start signal, they push off the wall while lying on their back. This matches the description of being in the water and facing the wall at the start.
• Butterfly: The butterfly start is very similar to the freestyle start. Swimmers begin on a starting block and dive into the water, facing away from the wall.

Identifying the Correct Swimming Style

Based on the analysis of the starting procedures for each major swimming style:

• Breaststroke and Butterfly starts involve diving or pushing off facing away from the wall.
• Freestyle also typically starts with a dive facing away from the wall.
• Backstroke is the style where the swimmer is positioned in the water, facing the wall, and holding onto it just before pushing off to begin the race. This aligns with the specific condition mentioned in the question.

Therefore, the swimming style where the swimmer starts by being in the water facing the wall is the backstroke.