Aqua Spirit Club
Written guide·Mermaiding·Intermediate

Dolphin Kick for Mermaiding: Build the Wave, Not the Bend

Create propulsion through a connected body wave while protecting the lower back from forced range.

Read the main guide; inline images and diagrams explain individual ideas where needed.

By Aqua Spirit Coaching TeamUpdated Aug 11, 2026Reviewed by Aqua Spirit Coaching & Safety Team

Expert reviewed · Aug 8, 2026

In brief

What you will learn

  • The movement travels through the body.
  • Bigger is not automatically better.
  • Stop when the lower back takes over.

Start without the tail

Practise a small wave from chest to hips and feet before adding resistance. The knees respond to the wave rather than driving a bicycle kick.

Add equipment gradually

Use short repeats and retain the ability to stop, surface and reach the wall.

  • Keep the neck long.
  • Reduce amplitude if the lower back compresses.
  • Ask a coach to check timing from the side.

Sources

  1. PADI Mermaid Course — PADI

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The Art of Mermaiding