The catch phase is the initial phase of the swim stroke. This is where the hand enters the water and begins to press downward in order to move forward.
It indicates the transition from entering the water to pulling and assists in effective movement forward. Catch in freestyle is placing the forearm, together with the hand, in the water for the grip. The catch is secure because it provides greater contact with the water and power transmission from the front of the body in order to move forward. Sculling or fingertips drag drills are typically performed in order to enhance the catch when practicing.