thumb|right|alt=Cartoon of steps in one side stroke cycle
The sidestroke is a swimming stroke, so named because the swimmer lies on one's side with asymmetric arm and leg motion. It is helpful as a lifesaving technique and is often used for long-distance swimming. The sidestroke allows the swimmer increased endurance because instead of working both arms and legs simultaneously in the same way, the side stroke uses them simultaneously but differently.
The hands act like oars, and do not waste any power by oblique action. In ordinary swimming on the right side, the left arm moves gently in the water, almost at rest.
Sidestroke evolved in ancient times from swimmers who discovered that it was painful to swim breaststroke with the head above the water.
See also
- Combat sidestroke, a variation of the side stroke that was developed by and taught to the United States Navy SEALs.