[header] How to do an open turn in swimming [title] Swim towards the wall. [step] When you're on your last stroke of the butterfly or breaststroke, move your head to look straight down at the bottom of the pool. [substeps] Your last stroke should bring you about half a body length away from the pool wall. 
If you are more than half a body length from the wall, give an extra kick in the water to push yourself forward. [title] Extend your arms to reach for the wall.