Dive like a PRO by Mastering these 4 Finning Techniques

Are you one of those divers who kick your way in the water without giving it much thought as long as you are headed in the right direction? If you are, don’t you think it’s about time for an underwater game changer? Step up the diving ladder by learning and mastering these top four finning techniques:

Flutter kick

The flutter kick is commonly used in basic diving courses like the Open Water course because it is the easiest technique of all. It is done by simply moving each leg up and down in alternating directions as you would in freestyle but at a slower pace. Keep your legs slightly bent at the knees and parallel with your hips for maximized results. The thrust of the flutter kick comes from the downwards fin.

This kick is best employed on the surface, in a current, or when you are far from the bottom. It is not advisable when diving close to a sandy seabed, inside a wreck or cave, and above coral or other delicate marine life.

Although you can do the flutter kick using a variety of scuba fins, it is not recommended to apply it on your entire diving when using stiff fins to avoid getting exhausted.

Frog kick

The frog kick is an effective technique that provides you with a more forward thrust using less effort. It also gives you more balance and eases the stress on your legs, knees, and ankles compared to other kicks. This powerful kick enables you to cover more distance than a flutter kick and the steady gliding motion gives your legs a resting phase to recover. 

Once you’re underwater, start by placing your legs and body on a horizontally streamline position. Bend your knees in towards your body at a 90° angle then move your ankles to rotate the fin blades outwards. Keep your fins parallel to the seafloor and avoid opening the knees too wide. The key is to allow your heels to face toward each other just before your feet come together The outward ankle rotation allows your fins to cut through the water with their thin edges with the least amount of resistance. 

The frog kick is ideal for open-water diving in mild currents, water column, or close to the bottom. However, it is not recommended when diving close to walls or in stronger currents. A shorter variation works well in confined spaces such as a cave or wreck because it prevents stirring up bottom sediment or silt. 

This technique is not hard to master and works well with blade fins or turtle fins but not that effective with split fins. 

Helicopter turn 

The helicopter turn involves parting your fins horizontally using opposing back-and-forth motion and at the same time rotating the ankles and fin blades on axis. This kind of turning ability can be very handy in a wreck or cave exploration when you need to turn around without stirring silt or disturbing the bottom. 

Reverse or backward frog kick 

Imagine a situation where you need to move away from other divers or back out from a tight space without changing your position in the water. The reverse frog kick makes this possible without using your hands. Start with your legs straight back and ankles together then flex your ankles outwards. Next, part your knees and pull the fins back towards the upper portion of your body. This technique can be an advantage when observing marine life or taking underwater photos because you can maneuver without damaging the surrounding reef with your hands.

Learning multiple finning techniques

Mastering multiple finning techniques enable you to use what is appropriate for the environment and conditions. Nemo Diving Center offers Advanced Diving Courses in Dubai where you can learn different finning techniques that can help boost your underwater efficiency, conserve your energy, and maximize your diving adventure.