Increasing Ease | Mediterra Swim & Run

Metrics 101: SPL Development Process

by Coach Mat | 9 Mar, 2014

First reference these previous two posts: Metrics 101: Stroke Length Metrics 101: Aim For Stroke Length Ease Let me explain a bit about the SPL (or Stroke Length) Development Process: Step 1. Reach SPL range. In the first stage you are developing the ability to...

How To Construct A Tune-Up

by Coach Mat | 8 Mar, 2013

So what exactly might a ‘Tune-Up’ look like? It is a sequence of steps I take to prepare my mind and body for the main task of the practice. It’s a series of steps, or a routine even, for bringing each essential piece into line so the swimmer (me)...

Why Do I Slow Down?

by Coach Mat | 2 Nov, 2012

Why do I get tired and slow down as the swim progresses? Interpretation #1 Well, I got tired and so I slowed down. I must therefore work out harder to get in better shape so I can hold consistent pace at this distance. Interpretation #2 I lost concentration on...

Heat, Waves, and Head Down

by Coach Mat | 31 Jul, 2012

I am struggling in this Antalya heat. It’s ‘cooled’ down to the low 30’s but the humidity is high. After a several weeks, even with precautions and rest, the body and brain just start running more sluggishly. I hit the sea today a bit later-...

Breathe Easy

by Coach Mat | 17 Apr, 2012

Recently, I have had three different swimmers come to me with specific complaints about being out of breath from swimming just a lap or two. There are likely a few more possible causes, but here are the three that I run into more often: 1. Struggle Obviously, then...