Great backstroke turns require exact timing, and a continuous flow into the flip.

Why do it:
If you miscount your approach to the wall in backstroke, you'll either end up too far away cause you to slow or be disqualified, or getting too close, causing you to jam the turn.  Learning the right count is key.

How to do it:
1 - Start by having the swimmers learn their count for a great backstroke finish.
2 - Now, turn them the other way, using the flags from the push-off end like they're the flags at the turning end.
3 - Push off flat with no underwaters so you're swimming by the time you pass the flags.
4 - Take one stroke off the count you got for the backstroke finish and practice flowing over to your stomach on that count.
5 - Finally, as the swimmer rolls over to the stomach, have them follow the top arm DIRECTLY into the flip.  NO HESITATION.

How to do it really well (the fine points):
Mid-pool turns are a great way to learn the flow of the flip, but ultimately, you HAVE to take it back into the wall.  Start by having the swimmer take TWO strokes off their count as they go toward the wall, and perform the flip.  This means they'll probably miss the wall, but retain the immediate flip into the turn.

Move them one stroke closer and pay particular attention to how close they're getting to the wall.  Use partners or buoys to make sure the swimmers don't hit the wall.

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Turns - Teaching Backstroke Turn Timing