There are several finning techniques used when SCUBA diving, each of which has a specific purpose and use.
- Flutter kick.
The flutter kick is the most basic and commonly used finning technique in scuba diving. It involves kicking the legs alternately in an up-and-down motion, similar to the motion of fluttering butterfly wings. This technique provides good propulsion and is efficient for maintaining a steady pace while diving. This is an efficient and easy-to-learn technique that is effective with essentially all types of fins, making it the most common technique taught and used.
- Modified flutter kick.
The modified flutter kick is a variation of the traditional flutter kick that involves using smaller, quicker kicks to generate propulsion while conserving energy. This technique is useful for diving in strong currents or when navigating tight spaces where larger kicks may be impractical.
- Frog Kick.
The frog kick is a more efficient finning technique that minimizes disturbance to the environment, making it ideal for underwater photography and sensitive marine life encounters. To perform the frog kick, the diver keeps the fins parallel to the body and kicks both legs simultaneously in a downward and outward motion, similar to a frog’s swimming motion. This kick is often used by technical and/or wreck divers who are wanting to avoid stirring up the bottom. The displacement of water tends to be pushed out sideways, mitigating much of the stirring of the bottom that can occur when flutter kicking.
- Back-kick.
The backward kick is used to move backward through the water while facing forward. To perform the backward kick, the diver kicks both legs simultaneously in a backward motion, similar to the reverse kick but with a greater emphasis on generating forward propulsion. This technique is effective when caught in a tight space you need to back out of, or when avoiding other divers in a tight area.
- Helicopter Turn.
The helicopter turn is a manoeuvre used to change direction quickly and efficiently underwater. To perform the helicopter turn, the diver bends at the waist and uses one arm to stabilize while using the opposite arm and leg to initiate a circular motion, similar to the motion of a helicopter rotor blade. This is an effective way to change orientation in the water, allowing you to look under ledges or into holes and caves.
All the techniques mentioned above are effective when applied to the correct situation. Having a deep bag of tricks when it comes to moving yourself through the water makes you a more skilful diver and able to apply your skills to a greater range of situations. Remember, practice makes perfect!
