What this swimming skill is
The flutter kick is a small, fast kick with the legs taking turns, like gentle bubbling at the surface. It comes mostly from the hips, with long legs and loose ankles.
It builds on paddling with the hands. Your child learns it on the front, on the back, on the side, and after pushing off the wall. Next comes the dolphin kick, and later the kick joins the arms in front crawl and backstroke.
See it in action
Step 5: How To Flutter Kick
Straight legs, pointed toes and small, fast kicks, practised with the Motor Boat song and a game of Red Light, Green Light.
From the AquaMobile YouTube channel
Why it matters
Keeps the legs up.
A steady kick helps the body stay level, which makes swimming easier.
Moves you along.
Even on its own, a good kick carries your child across the pool.
Used in two main strokes.
Front crawl and backstroke both rely on it.
Great exercise.
Kicking builds leg strength and fitness at any age.
Who it is for
This suits children, teens, adults and seniors. Your child is ready when they are comfortable on the front and back with support, and can paddle a short way. Children often kick hard from the knees at first, and find a smaller kick through games. If you are learning as an adult, a gentle, relaxed kick is all you need. Your instructor adapts it if your ankles or knees feel stiff.
Part 1 of 4
On the front
The goal
Your child kicks along on the front holding a kickboard, a flat float held out in front, with small, quick kicks. They breathe steadily as they go and cover 10 metres.
Why it matters
Kicking on the front is the kick of front crawl. Holding a float lets your child focus on the legs.
What happens in lessons
Holding the wall.
Your child holds the edge and practises small kicks, with the instructor beside them.
Kicking with support.
Your child holds a kickboard or the instructor's hands and kicks along.
Breathing as they kick.
Bubbles in the water and a breath above it join in while the legs keep going.
Going further.
Your child kicks a little further each time, building up to 10 metres.
How you can help between lessons
- Sitting on a chair or the edge of a bed, practise small, quick kicks with long legs and pointed toes.
Common questions
- Why does my child kick so hard but go nowhere?
- Usually the kick comes from the knees, a bit like riding a bike. A smaller, quicker kick from the hips moves further. Short, playful practice helps it change.
- Should my child use fins?
- Fins can help some children feel a long, relaxed kick. Ask your instructor whether they suit your child. The aim is never to depend on them.
- My legs sink when I kick. What am I doing wrong?
- Nothing unusual: it happens to many adults. Often the head is lifted or the kick is too big. Your instructor helps you find a smaller kick near the surface.
- Do seniors need to kick hard?
- No. A gentle, steady kick is enough to keep the legs up and help the stroke along. Your instructor adapts it to what feels comfortable.
