Combat sidestroke

Combat Sidestroke is a swimming style developed and used by the United States Navy SEALs to provide an efficient way to swim long distances, while also reducing the swimmer's profile in the water to minimize the chance of detection.

History

The Combat Sidestroke was developed during the early years of the Cold War as a method for Special Operations Forces to swim in a more efficient and less detectable manner. It combines elements of the traditional sidestroke, breaststroke, and freestyle to create a hybrid stroke that allows the swimmer to glide through the water with minimal splashing or wave creation.

Technique

The Combat Sidestroke begins with the swimmer lying on their side in the water. The lower arm extends straight out from the shoulder, while the upper arm rests along the body. The legs perform a scissor kick, similar to the one used in the traditional sidestroke. The upper arm then pulls through the water, followed by a glide phase where the body is streamlined and the swimmer takes a breath. The cycle then repeats.

Training

Training for the Combat Sidestroke is rigorous and requires a high level of physical fitness. The United States Navy includes it as part of the BUD/S program, where candidates must demonstrate proficiency in the stroke during a timed swim.

Use in Special Operations

The Combat Sidestroke is used by Special Operations Forces, including the Navy SEALs, for long-distance swims and when stealth is required. It is particularly useful in open water and ocean environments, where the swimmer may need to cover large distances while remaining undetected.

See also

• Swimming
• Navy SEALs
• Special Operations Forces