From basic water safety – getting to the wall after unexpectedly being in the water – to making the wall your flip-turn friend in a race, we’re showing our swimmers the right way to use the pool walls.

What’s a flip turn anyway?

A flip turn is the turbo boost of the swimming world. Competitive swimmers know it well—it keeps you zooming through the water without a pause. As you approach the wall, you do a swift underwater somersault and push off the wall to continue swimming in the opposite direction. We call it the “flip turn.”

Mastering the magic of flip turns

Want to nail the perfect flip turn? Here’s how you can make a splash:

• Start the flip: As you swim towards the wall, tuck your chin and go for a tight forward somersault.
• Kick-off: Push off the wall with your feet, aiming in the right direction for your next stellar lap.
• Swim on: Extend your arms, streamline your body, add a few dolphin kicks, and you’re back in action!

Pro tips for flawless flips

• Practice makes perfect: Start somersaults in the pool and at home. Keep it tight with head and chin tucked!
• Stay streamlined: Keep your body straight like an arrow for a slick exit from the flip.
• Power up with your legs: Use those leg muscles for a strong push-off and dolphin kick to the surface to keep momentum going.
• Keep it smooth: The first few tries might slow you down, but keep at it. Practice will make your flips fab!

What’s on the flip-turn agenda?

As our swimmers grow, so do their skills. Here’s how we flip it up a notch in each upper level:

• Level 5: Assisted front somersaults—a few feet from the wall, tuck and roll with a little help.
• Level 6: Going solo with those somersaults.
• Level 7: Beginner freestyle turns—swim up, flip, and keep swimming.
• Level 8: Backstroke flips—count those strokes and make your turn.
• Level 9: Master freestyle and backstroke turns for 40 yards, plus open turns for butterfly and breaststroke.

Dive into swimming with Watermelon Swim!

At Watermelon Swim, we teach swimmers as young as six months to love and be safe in the water. From Parent-Tot classes to advanced stroke technique, we’ve got a wave for everyone. And don’t worry if your little one’s a bit shy around water—our instructors specialize in turning nervousness into confident strokes!

With four indoor locations in the Tampa area, we’re here come rain or shine. Call us at (813) 229-7946 for a tour and meet our swim-loving team.