Specific Skills | Mediterra Swim & Run

Begin The Catch

by Coach Mat | 27 Nov, 2012

I am enjoying the comments and questions on this topic. But we may be reaching the limits of what I may be able to effectively describe with words. I will do my best… Here is a play-by-play, radio commentary on what I think about when forming the catch: The...

Slip Or Slide

by Coach Mat | 26 Nov, 2012

This post is in response to a question (in the comments section) I just received on my blog post Power From The Core. It’s building upon what was discussed in the previous post, Measuring The Catch. There’s much more on this blog, you can just do a little...

Measuring The Catch

by Coach Mat | 23 Nov, 2012

Here is a question I just received on my post Power From The Core… Is it possible to guess how much difference there are between a good and a bad catch, if counting SPL and if other factors are equal? My answer is given here to provide a better chance that it...

Improving Stroke Timing

by Coach Mat | 21 Nov, 2012

I’ve been experimenting with a new way to use the Tempo Trainer in adjusting the stroke timing, in order to preserve a long stroke at faster tempos. In TI we use a Focal Point called the Patient Front Arm to help train this skill. This long stroke skill is...

Left = Right = Excellent

by Coach Mat | 5 Nov, 2012

Every swimmer I’ve ever asked has agreed that they have one side that is easier to breathe on than the other. And just about every swimmer I have ever observed shows some sort of difference between their left side stroke and the right side. It is very common and...

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...