Relax Into Easier Breathing
I was working with ‘Ray’ in a private lesson. He presented a good example of how we could use the Checklist For Easier Breathing to diagnose his breathing complaint and pinpoint the possible solutions. To review, here are the four main features of easier...
Does Swimming Burn Fat? 2
As well as being asked about this from time to time, I’ve learned that this is a common online search phrase so I should get some extra hits on this post. Previously, I’ve written some thoughts on body fat in relation to swimming: Does Swimming Burn Fat? 1...
Do What Works For You (?)
“Just do what works for you.” I have heard some version of this phrase spoken or written by coaches or pundits many times, in many different sports. It can be alarming to me because: I doubt the average (citizen) athlete understands the context of...
You Must Use Momentum – Part 2
This discussion is continued from Part 1… If body shape, stroke pattern and stroke length were equal between two swimmers, but one swimmer is sending her recovery arm forward with better momentum and directing that into her sleek Skate Position, she would be...
You Must Use Momentum – Part 1
Here is something I explain to my swimmers when we’re building (or re-building) the freestyle stroke for the first time. This is meant to help students on each extreme: those who are too anxious to start moving faster, and those who are too reluctant to add more...
Courtesy In A Crowded Lane
This post continues the discussion from When Swimming In A Crowded Lane… Here are some guidelines I’ve used to help me be a more courteous swimmer in a crowded lane and contribute to a more peaceful pool space. First and foremost… Be Friendly I very...
Thinking About A New Wetsuit?
I want to lay out some thoughts about buying a wetsuit to address the many questions and concerns I receive. Much of the following is an excerpt from my forthcoming ebook A Better Triathlon Swim that is just days away from being published. Wetsuits are desirable for...
Checklist For Easier Breathing – Part 3
The Checklist Here is a ‘short’ and essential checklist to help you survey your pattern to look for gaps or weak spots. If you’ve been to one of our training events you’ll recognize many of these points and remember what kind of drills we use...