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How do you turn underwater in a pool?

Published in Swimming Techniques 2 mins read

To turn underwater in a pool, typically during a flip turn while swimming, you bury your head, bring your knees to your chest, and rotate your body. Remember to exhale through your nose to prevent water from entering.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

  1. Approach the Wall: Swim towards the pool wall with momentum.

  2. Initiate the Tuck: As you get close, tuck your chin towards your chest and bring your knees up towards your chest. This compacts your body, allowing for a faster rotation.

  3. Rotate: Continue to tuck tightly and rotate your body in a forward somersault motion underwater.

  4. Place Feet: As you complete the rotation, position your feet flat against the wall, shoulder-width apart and slightly below the surface.

  5. Push Off: Push off the wall with your feet, extending your arms forward in a streamline position.

  6. Streamline: Maintain the streamline position (arms extended overhead, hands clasped together) to reduce drag and maximize speed.

  7. Begin Swimming: After the streamline, begin your swimming stroke.

Key Considerations:

  • Breathing: Exhale through your nose while upside down to prevent water from entering.
  • Momentum: Carry enough speed into the turn for a smooth and efficient rotation.
  • Tuck: Keep your body tucked tightly to increase the speed of the rotation.
  • Foot Placement: Proper foot placement on the wall is crucial for a strong and effective push-off.

By following these steps, you can execute an effective underwater turn in a pool.

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