How to do a quick turn

In this article, I will explain how to perform a "quick turn".

I would like to break it down step-by-step so that even complete beginners can do it.

Step 1: Perform a forward roll

First, perform a forward roll on the spot.

If you can do it, move on to the next step.

For those who cannot do it, here is a practice method:

Extend your arms behind you, keep your hands as close together as possible, grab the lane rope, and try to perform a forward roll.

If you cannot grab the lane rope, hold two kickboards behind you (rest your hands on them) and perform the forward roll.

Points to note

Exhale through your nose.

Tuck your chin, bring your head close to your belly button, and curl your body into a small ball.

Bend your legs firmly to make your body small.

Do not let go of your hands until the very end.

Step 2: Forward roll from a floating position

Float with your arms at your sides, then perform a forward roll from there. Stand up after you have rotated.

Try to rotate straight so that you can stand up facing the same direction as when you started.

Step 3: Forward roll from a floating position -> Sink to the bottom of the pool, get into a streamline position, and jump straight up

Add the action of pushing off the bottom of the pool to Step 2. Keep your hands in a streamline position to simulate the state after an actual turn.

When pushing off the floor, try to jump straight up.

Step 4: Flip your body after jumping in Step 3

The important point is not to flip while jumping, but to jump first and then flip.

Step 4: Approach the wall in a standing position, perform a forward somersault, and place both feet on the wall.

This is an exercise to get a feel for the distance from the wall before the turn.

Step 5: After the movement in step 4, push off the wall while facing upward in a standing position.

You are getting closer to completing the turn little by little. Just one more step to go.

Final step: Before pushing off the wall in step 5, bring your hands into a streamline position, push off the wall facing upward, and after pushing off, rotate your body to face downward.

The key is to rotate your body to face downward after pushing off the wall. A common mistake in turns is twisting your body while rotating, which prevents you from pushing off the wall effectively. If you rotate straight, your feet will definitely land on the wall, so don't try to do everything at once; let's work on each step reliably.

Once you can do this consistently, it won't be too late to practice the twisting motion while rotating.

If you struggle with flip turns or cannot do them yet, please give this a try.