Combat Sidestroke | SEALSWCC.COM

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The first part of the SEAL SWCC Physical Screening Test requires you to learn the Combat Sidestroke (CSS). The CSS is taught to all SEAL and SWCC candidates. There's no easy way to master it, and every Naval Special Warfare operator has to know it.

The CSS is a long axis tactical stroke designed to be low profile, efficient, and fast. It's used to travel long distances in open water and to quickly swim through the surf zone. The CSS is performed with a 90 degree balanced rotation. Begin the stroke on your stomach then onto your side and back to the stomach. All put together it is a natural rotation, using the core to assist and create power and torque.

Your starting and stopping point of the stroke cycle is in the streamlined position. The stroke begins with the pull arm. As you pull, you'll allow your shoulder and hips to open to the appropriate direction, allowing an opportunity to breath. When the pull arm begins the recovery, the kick (either scissor or flutter kick), will help facilitate your body’s rotation back into the streamline position. While in this streamline position just under the surface of the water, you're encouraged to exhale slowly, and flutter kick, especially with the use of fins. This will assist in a continuous and consistent forward motion.