Sprint Training | Mediterra Swim & Run

Private Virtual Competition

by Coach Mat | 29 Dec, 2012

This is how a virtual competition (with Sun Yang or any swimmer in the world you choose!) might work: Pace is a simple calculation of Stroke Length (SL) x Tempo. We will use SL because it is a universal measurement – it doesn’t matter what length pool you...

A Better Push-Off

by Coach Mat | 23 Dec, 2012

Experimenting with head position during push-off from the pool wall is a great exercise, as it will build the feel for which position is truly the most hydrodynamic. In pool training I have a regular habit of marking the 6m mark (just past the flags), either by noting...

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...

The Role Of Heart Rate

by Coach Mat | 25 Sep, 2012

Another question came up soon after the Kickboard question: What about training and Heart Rate? Heart rate is a response in the body, not a causation. You don’t ‘train’ your heart rate, instead your heart rate gives you information about your...