SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/swim-freestyle-any-style

In a freestyle race, which stroke must a swimmer use?

Any style the swimmer wants, though most choose front crawl.

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  1. Front crawl only
  2. Butterfly only
  3. Any style the swimmer wants ✔

Why: In a freestyle event the swimmer may swim any style. Most pick front crawl because it is fast. In a medley, though, the freestyle leg cannot be backstroke, breaststroke or butterfly.

Huh, didn't know that: Some part of a freestyle swimmer must touch the wall at the end of every length.

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References

Answer: Any style the swimmer wants. In a freestyle event the swimmer may swim any style. Most pick front crawl because it is fast. In a medley, though, the freestyle leg cannot be backstroke, breaststroke or butterfly.

  1. World Aquatics Competition Regulations, in force February 2026 resources.fina.org/fina/document/2026/02/18/e6815ecc-06d9-4f0b-98e9-4c441cf5e6a3/2026-02-18_World-Aquatics_CR-Final.pdf
    In a Freestyle race, Freestyle means an Athlete may swim any style.
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  2. World Aquatics Competition Regulations, in force February 2026 resources.fina.org/fina/document/2026/02/18/e6815ecc-06d9-4f0b-98e9-4c441cf5e6a3/2026-02-18_World-Aquatics_CR-Final.pdf
    At least one part of the Athlete’s body must touch the wall upon completion of each length and at the finish.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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