Not to point out the obvious... but breathing is a three part action. In. Out. Hold.
The quality of any inhale is dependent upon the quality (volume) of the exhale.
Congrats to the OP for getting on w flip turns. Its a skill that too many triathletes just avoid that can greatly enhance their overall aquatic capacity.
Breathing into the turn is far less detrimental to velocity than breathing out of the turn. I would wager that those struggling after the flip are not utilizing the exhale to its fullest. One 'drill' to work on this physical activity and also satisfy the emotional challenge of being submerged is to hang on the surface of the water with your lungs full and then exhale until you being to sink (do this in shallow water to begin with and if needed you can have your hands anchored on the wall to stop your fall). Once you start sinking allow yourself to go as far as comfortable before you return to the surface.
From there, continue on your exploration of exhaling to sink.
You will find:
You have way more air in you than you thought
You can last longer than you ever dared thought (without air in your lungs) ** which will pale in comparison to the time needed to execute a flip turn and streamline and surface swim
And lastly, that after a few tries... it is kind of fun.
I think I have shared this before. But I have worked with many AOS who were physically gifted and developed to run marathons or compete in cycling event but could not do one lap of the pool without being 'gassed'...
Your aquatic breathing quality is ruled by your exhale.
daved
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