Swimming can seem like it has its own language, especially when you're on the pool deck. From training phrases to swimming slang, the terminology can be confusing for both beginners and experienced swimmers. This article will explore common stroke terminology you might hear on the pool deck and see in the DuoSwim app.

Kicking involves swimming using only your legs, without the use of your arms. You might use a kickboard to help keep your head above water, or you can hold a streamline position on your back or stomach if no kickboard is available.

Kick sets are designed to improve your leg strength and efficiency for stronger kicks during regular swimming.

A swimming drill is an exercise designed to improve your technique. It usually involves modifying a competition stroke, such as using only one arm for backstroke or swimming finger-trail freestyle.

Drills help you focus on specific aspects of your technique, like arm position, kicking, or breathing.

Pulling is swimming without kicking. This is typically done with a pull buoy between your legs to keep them afloat, allowing you to focus on your arm movements. Often, swimmers use paddles—flat plastic devices attached to the hands—to add resistance and build strength in their pull.

The Individual Medley (IM) involves swimming equal distances of each of the four competition strokes in a specific order:

For example, a 200m IM consists of:

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