FINA Officially Make "Lochte Turn" Illegal

After Ryan Lochte went rogue at this summer's World Championships with a new breast-to-free turn in the 200 IM, FINA has issued a clarification to its rule on IM turns: "Being on the back when leaving the wall for the Freestyle portion of the Ind. Medley is covering more than one quarter of the distance in the style of Backstroke and is, therefore, a disqualification. Backstroke swimming is only defined as being on the back."

Read more about the new rule on Swimming World's website and look for the next edition of Streamlines.

Breaststroke Rule Change - Effective Immediately

There is an immediate rule change in the breaststroke:  

“101.2.3 Kick — After the start and after each turn, at any time prior to the first breaststroke kick, a single butterfly (dolphin) kick is permitted, following which, all movements of the legs shall be simultaneous and in the same horizontal plane without alternating movement.  The feet must be turned outwards during the propulsive part of the kick. Scissors, alternating movements, or downward butterfly (dolphin) kicks are not permitted except as provided herein. Breaking the surface of the water with the feet is allowed unless followed by a downward butterfly (dolphin) kick.” 

Click on the photo to the right for a fuller description. If anyone has questions or wishes to discuss this or other USMS rules, contact Officials Chair Bill Ewan at Bill.Ewan.W1VH@gmail.com.