Youth Inc. Recommends: Five Resources to Help You Approach, Then Master, Flip Turns

Flip turns might look cool, but their purpose is far from aesthetic. They’re about keeping momentum, holding form, and shaving off precious seconds every time you hit the wall. But for many swimmers, especially newer ones, flip turns can be intimidating. Water in the nose. Mistimed tumbles. The whole "wait, where am I?" feeling. 

These five resources demystify the flip turn — and open turns too — helping you approach the wall with confidence, precision, and a little Dressel-inspired flair. 

Types of Turns

What it is: A clear breakdown of the two main types of turns in swimming: open and flip — with an assessment of each one that goes beyond their sometimes mindless pairings with individual strokes. 

Why we like it: A must-watch for beginners or coaches working with younger swimmers. It sets the foundation and helps athletes understand why they turn the way they do.

How to Do a Flip Turn

What it is: A friendly, step-by-step guide designed to help swimmers overcome fear and ease into learning flip turns. 

Why we like it: It’s approachable, calming, and beginner-friendly. For younger swimmers who’ve avoided learning flip turns because they seem “too hard,” this one’s your on-ramp.

How to Avoid Nose Burn During Flip Turns

What it is: An unexpectedly deep dive into the science of keeping water out of your nose — and why that discomfort might be holding swimmers back from learning to flip turn properly. 

Why we like it: It’s specific, actionable, and a game-changer for newer swimmers. This isn’t a throwaway tip — it’s a legit barrier-breaker for technique progression.

Timing the Open Turn for Breaststroke and Butterfly

What it is: A precise breakdown of open turn timing for breaststroke and butterfly — ensuring you hit the wall, turn, and push off with maximum efficiency. 

Why we like it: Butterfly and breaststroke turns can get clunky if the timing’s off. This video makes clean, fluid execution feel totally doable — especially for competitive youth swimmers.

Perfect Flip Turns with Caeleb Dressel

What it is: A technique breakdown of Caeleb Dressel’s elite-level flip turn, analyzing how he maintains speed and precision at every wall. 

Why we like it: Watching Dressel turn is like watching a jet take off — but this video slows it down and makes his magic feel trainable. It’s inspiring and instructional.