Technology and Tools | Mediterra Swim & Run

Simple Math Can Swim Fast

by Coach Mat | 24 Dec, 2011

It is the basic math of SL x SR that tells us where we are at and where we need to be in order to reach our goal. If I set a target of 17 strokes per 25m, starting with 1.20 second tempo, and I find that is it easy for me to hold optimal stroke overlap, the challenge...

Go For Muscle Or Skill?

by Coach Mat | 19 Nov, 2011

I want to stimulate our thinking about the difference between focusing on building muscles (i.e. fitness) during swim practice versus focusing on building skill. Let’s take this example of the difference between a practice set using paddles versus a set using a...

Using A Tempo Trainer- SPEED IT UP!

by Coach Mat | 25 Apr, 2011

Using A Tempo Trainer – SPEED IT UP! If you’ve read the previous two lessons then great. Let’s procede. If not, I suggest you take a moment to go back to the Intro and see how those two lessons set the stage for this one. Speed = Stroke Length (SL) x...

Using A Tempo Trainer- SLOW IT DOWN

by Coach Mat | 25 Apr, 2011

Using A Tempo Trainer – SLOW IT DOWN! If you have not read the Introduction, I invite you to do so now to get an idea of what I’m trying to explain with these Tempo Trainer lessons. If you know your current normal SPL and SR for your targeted distance event,...

How To Use A Tempo Trainer- INTRO

by Coach Mat | 25 Apr, 2011

An Introduction To Using A Tempo Trainer First, a few definitions: Stroke Length (SL) – the distance your body travels forward in each stroke cycle (of each arm). For instance, Coach Mat is 1.76 meters tall and has a comfortable SL of 1.2 meters. For more...

Finding Your Tempo Range

by Coach Mat | 25 Apr, 2011

A Method To Determine Your Baseline Tempo Range Technically, Stroke Rate (SR) is in units of strokes per second (or minutes). While Tempo (the settings we use on a Tempo Trainer) is in units of seconds per stroke. Therefore SR = 1/Tempo. Often we will see analysis of...