Game version
Glide game: from the wall, push off and glide to a floating ring, then your partner goes. The pair collects ten smooth glides, with an adult watching.
Backstroke Flags Count
Count your strokes from the flags to the wall so you can turn without looking.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Swim backstroke and start counting strokes as you pass under the flags.
Core: To the second. Aim for a long, relaxed glide.
- Ages
- 11 and up
- Time
- 10 min
- Players
- Just you
- Space
- Pool
- Bring
- Pool with backstroke flags
- Level · skill
- Developing · Starts & Turns
The steps
How it works
- Swim backstroke and start counting strokes as you pass under the flags.
- Touch the wall with your hand and remember the number.
- Do it 4 more times and see if the number stays the same.
- Use that count for your turn.
Coaching point
Flags, count, turn.
Safety: Swim only with a lifeguard or coach watching and, under 14, a grown-up within arm’s reach.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Pick a distance: Less (to the first flag), Core (to the second), More (to the third). Aim for a long, relaxed glide.
Story
You are a seal launching from a rock into the sea.
My best
Beat your own count
Aim for a long, relaxed glide. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
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