How to Control Which Side to Turn to in Flip Turn?
Former Member
I have been practicing flip turn for some while. All my turns are to my right side. I intentionally try to turn to the left but mostly fail. However I have seen many other swimmers turn to their left most of the time.
I was wondering what are the critical points that control which side to turn to?
I guess mastering this will help me to get a better feeling and balance under the water. Do you also think so?
Thanks!
I respectfully disagree with your disagreeing. My coach hounds me about my arms at my side.
That's something I point out to my swimmers too. if both your hands are at your side you only have your kick left to move you fwd.
it's the same thing with a backstroke turn. role over and follow your last arm through the turn. if you glide long enough so that both arms come to your side you risk being DSQ for being on your stomache for too long.
I disagree with the idea of following your arm.I think you want both arms at your sides as you begin the turn.Since you have both arms at your sides and flip straight over it is immaterial which side you turn to after the push off.
When my swimmers don't get over straight, it's usually due to their head position. I tell them to position their nose right in the middle of their knees and that corrects the problem. The slightest movement of the head to the right or left will move the legs in the opposite direction. Remember, even slight movements of the head will move your legs in the opposite direction. Good luck, Coach T.
I thought you basically kick off on your back. I actually roll with my left side down and sort of turn and kick off almost with my face facing down but I always think that my flip turn is wrong and you should kick off on your back and then turn(if anyone knows what I mean:D).
I disagree with the idea of following your arm.
I respectfully disagree with your disagreeing. My coach hounds me about my arms at my side. I am told to take one extra stroke, even a half stroke, and follow the arm. It puts me closer to the wall providing me with a stronger push off.
It is harder, but seems to be faster. Old habits die hard, more so when it is hard. My excuse is that I only have so much energy to expend so I must dole it out. I choose to not spend it on the wall. I think of the walls as a restings spot, a bit of Eden.
I breathe most comfortably to my right side. While flip-turning, I turn to the side I breathe (my right). I've tried to turn to the left just to try it and it feels awkward. I haven't felt like there is a reason for me to switch, whereas breathing to both sides has more of an advantage (if I were to choose something to work on).
