The Crossover Turn: Why You’re Struggling (and How to Fix It)

Let’s talk about one of the most awkward, frustrating, technically demanding things in all of swimming: the crossover turn.

I’m not exaggerating when I say this is one of the hardest transitions to master—even some Olympic-level swimmers can’t do it right. No shame in that.

I know a guy who can go top-three in the 100 IM SCY in the world, and still struggle with this turn. It’s that tricky.

But here's the truth: if you want to swim a fast IM, this is a must-learn skill. The crossover turn is the fastest, most efficient way to transition from backstroke to breaststroke.

If you're still using the old bucket turn or flipping straight back into the wall, you're leaving serious time on the table.

💡 So, HOW do you learn it?

You start on land.

I use a simple dryland crossover turn drill that teaches proper body mechanics

This drill teaches you how to rotate your hips and shoulders properly and leverage your momentum.

It’s not pretty at first. It feels weird. But it helps you build that muscle memory before you ever hit the water.

Here’s are the 3 steps to master this drill:

1️⃣ Grab Onto A Wall Or Ledge And Lift Your Legs

Start by gripping a stable surface with one hand—this could be the edge of the pool deck, a bench, or any sturdy ledge

As you hold on, engage your core and lift your legs behind you.

This simulates the moment you reach the wall during backstroke and start preparing for the turn. Keep your body tight and controlled—no flailing.

2️⃣ Rotate Your Body In One Smooth Motion

As your legs rise, begin rotating your hips and shoulders together.

The key is to move as one unit—this rotation is what makes it a crossover turn.

You're rolling from your back toward your side, setting up for that legal and efficient transition into breaststroke.

3️⃣ Get Into A Strong Push-Off Position

Finish the motion by settling into a tight, sideways push-off stance

You shouldn’t be flat on your back or fully flipped over—just slightly turned on your side. This is the ideal angle to launch cleanly off the wall and carry momentum into your breaststroke.

It’s all about setting up that clean breakout.

You’ll feel clunky at first. That’s normal. The movement is totally unique in swimming, so it takes time. But when it clicks? Game changer.

Even if you’re a young swimmer struggling with it—don’t stress. This is tough for everyone. But the sooner you commit to learning it, the more confident and efficient you’ll be in IM races.

Check out my most recent vlog for the full tutorial.

BONUS 🎁: Blake Pieroni’s Poker Face: Why Staying Cool Matters

There’s something Blake Pieroni does better than almost anyone I’ve trained with: he controls his emotions when it counts.

We’ve done some brutally hard sets together—heart rate maxed, legs on fire—and Blake never flinches. His face stays calm. No drama. No complaints. But make no mistake, he’s in pain. He just doesn’t show it.

That ability to stay composed under pressure is a serious advantage. Because body language in swimming? It matters.

If you’re on the wall hunched over, gasping, looking wrecked—your competitors see that. And the second they do, they think: I’ve got this.

They smell blood in the water.

But when you look steady—even if you’re falling apart inside—you flip that script. You make the other guy wonder, Why isn’t he tired? What does he know that I don’t?

That doubt gives you the edge. Even if it’s only 1%, that’s often the margin between a podium and fourth place. Between qualifying or not.

The best swimmers in the world know how to suffer without showing it. Blake’s one of them. He plays the mental game without saying a word.

So the next time you’re deep in the pain cave during a tough set, try it. Keep your head up. Breathe steady. Show nothing. You might be hurting—but don’t let anyone see it.

That’s how you stay in control. And that’s how you win.

🚨 Big News

I’ve teamed up with 3x Olympian Blake Peroni to launch Underdog Sports Performance—a personal swim coaching and mentorship program.

We’re working with athletes of all levels: high school, masters, even swimmers in their 60s and 70s. Whether you're training for college, just want to get faster, or need someone to review race footage with a critical eye—we’re here for that.

It’s not an online course. It’s not a YouTube series. It’s real coaching. Real feedback. Real help. From me and Blake.

🎯 Think of it like this:

• Video reviews

• Stroke analysis

• Race strategy

• Customized programming

• 1-on-1 Zoom sessions

• All levels welcome

We’re only taking on about 20 athletes for now, so if you're interested, hit the link: UnderdogSportsPerformance.com

Let’s get after it

Until my next newsletter, I will see you all - later