**Quick recap**

The meeting featured a discussion between Glenn and Zach Moss, the Head Fencing Coach at Northwestern University, about the differences and similarities between swimming and fencing, particularly in coaching and feedback methods. Glenn highlighted the "feedback gap" in swimming, where mistakes are not immediately apparent, unlike in fencing where feedback is instant and physical. Zach explained the structure of fencing training, emphasizing the importance of footwork, individual instruction, and the normalization of losing. Glenn proposed the idea of implementing a "5-minute private lesson" in swimming, where a coach gives hyper-focused attention to one swimmer at a time, inspired by the individualized instruction common in fencing. They also discussed the frequency of competition, the mental aspects of both sports, and the potential benefits of reframing loss as a learning opportunity. The conversation aimed to explore how swimming could adopt some of fencing's coaching strategies to improve athlete development.

**Summary**

**Individualized Swimming Coaching Approach**

Glenn discussed his idea for a swimming coaching approach that would involve a coach providing 5-minute focused sessions on individual swimmers, switching between different kids every 5 minutes to give each child personalized attention. He explained that traditional swimming coaches are resistant to private lessons due to financial and control concerns, but this method would allow for efficient individual attention while maintaining team structure. Glenn noted that current group coaching lacks sufficient individual feedback, comparing coaches to sharks that only notice problems when they become obvious.

**Fencing vs Swimming Training Approaches**

Glenn presented a comparison between fencing and swimming training approaches, highlighting key differences in feedback mechanisms, training environments, and competitive structures. He explained that fencing provides immediate knowledge of results through visible indicators and frequent competition, while swimming results are delayed until reaching the wall, creating different learning experiences for athletes. Glenn outlined specific aspects they could discuss, including private versus group lessons, entry age requirements, and training timelines for both sports.

**Fencing and Swimming Coaching Insights**

Glenn welcomed Zach Moss, the Head Fencing Coach from Northwestern University, to discuss teaching methods and insights from different sports. Zach shared his background as a former competitive swimmer who switched to fencing, explaining that he grew up doing both sports simultaneously. Glenn noted the difference between swimming and fencing in terms of immediate feedback and outcomes, expressing interest in learning how these insights could be applied to swimming coaching. The discussion began to focus on comparing teaching processes between the two sports, with plans to review slides together.

**Fencing Coaching Techniques Discussion**

Glenn and Zach discussed fencing techniques, training approaches, and recruiting strategies, with a focus on the importance of individual instruction and feedback in developing fencers. Zach explained how fencing uses immediate feedback through physical contact and scoring to teach skills, contrasting this with swimming where outcomes are delayed until the end of races. Glenn identified a key insight from the discussion about implementing "5-minute private lessons" where coaches focus intensively on one athlete at a time during group practice sessions, which could be adapted for swimming coaching to provide more personalized attention.


July 14, 2015 - The Feedback Gap

Backstroke - Head Position - Above Water - Slow Motion


This may be seen more as a rant than a drill, and some will like it, and some will not. Either way, it is what it is... a useful piece of swim equipment.. the ever hated PULL BUOY.

**Why do it:** Why use a pull buoy? This wonderful piece of equipment, used by every elite swimmer since the inception. Invented by Fred Carbonaro in Birmingham Michigan, it's purpose is simple... to aid in the body position of the swimmer, and isolate the arms for work on the pull.

**How to use it:** **1)** We'll stick with the basics here... snug it up between your thighs. Keep it high so the thickest part of your legs will get a good grip. **2)** Uh... that's it. Ingenious huh? A piece of equipment so simple in it's design that's all the instructions needed.

**How to use it really well (the fine points):** Here's where we get into it's new name, "The Crutch". The longer I'm in the sport, the more people I hear hating on the pull buoy. I'd first like to know what Olympic swimmer hasn't used one. That being said, obviously, Olympic swimmers aren't the ones people complalin about. It's masters swimmers and triathletes. It's "purist" who complain that if you use one, you're doing the sport a disservice... you're a cheat, and you're not learning to swim like THEY want you to learn to swim. Does it make you feel better in the water? Tough... don't use it. Does it teach you how your body will be aligned if you're a wetsuit user in open water? Tough... you need to learn how to swim without it, no matter how uncomfortable or how pointless training with horrible body position is.

As a swimmer, a swimming professional, and a pretty laid back person who just wants people to enjoy the sport, I say... lighten up on the pull buoys. I use one just about everytime I climb in the water. I swim for enjoyment... I want to feel good.

Before we all start slamming the pull buoy, lets understand first what the goal of the swimmer is, what their ultimate race situation will be like, and if it's really our place to determine how someone else should spend their time in the water. I for one, am generally happy people come to the pool. If they choose to use a tool... cool.

*PS - If you don't think I understand the importance of teaching proper swimming technique... look at the 1000+ videos we've created here at GoSwim. This is more about our attitude as swim professionals to dictate on those who may be in the sport for something other than Olympic medals, and fastest swims. Crazy I know.*


All Strokes - The Crutch

Pick up your [**SlipFins here**](https://www.finisswim.com/slipfin-pro-launch) and use the promo code "**goswimtv**" for your discounted price.

\-----------------------------------------

**Swimming Business Origins and Innovation**

John discussed the origins of his swimming business with Glenn, describing how it started as a hobby with teammate Pablo Morales and how Glenn was one of the early supporters who helped guide the business. He explained the development of their innovative products, including the monofin and front-mounted snorkel, emphasizing the importance of educating customers about the benefits and proper usage. John noted that while competitors copied their snorkel design after the patent expired, they continued to iterate and improve their products, including developing a stability snorkel with a padded attachment.

**Swimming Fins Design and Regulations**

Glenn and John discussed the design principles of swimming equipment, focusing on how modern fins minimize interference and become an extension of the swimmer's body. Helen, a referee for open water events, explained that fins are not allowed in mass-start events due to safety concerns, but there is an assisted category for swimmers using wetsuits or other aids where their times still count but they cannot win awards. The discussion also touched on the historical development of fins, from Leonardo da Vinci's concepts in the 1400s to Benjamin Franklin's wooden versions, and noted that some open water races in Europe do allow fin swimming as a separate category.

**Triathlon Swimming Equipment Discussion**

John discussed how triathlon organizations now allow front snorkels to address swim anxiety, noting that most triathletes only complete about one and a half events due to swimming fears. He recommended slip fins as the ideal choice for recreational swimmers, describing them as lightweight, comfortable, and providing a larger foot surface without being heavy equipment. The discussion ended with John beginning to address design variables of different fin types and their impact on body position.

**Swim Fin Use Case Recommendations**

John explained the different use cases for various fins, noting that the Slip Fin is designed to mimic race-paced training with a natural feeling and fast foot speed due to its exact anatomical shape fit. He recommended using the oversized Edge fin for heavy resistance kicking sets and the Slip Fin for specific swim sets and warm-ups, as it allows for better tempo and stroke control. John also suggested having multiple fin types in a gear bag, comparing it to having different cars for different purposes, and highlighted the affordability and versatility of the Slip Fin for various training applications.

**Swimming Coaching and Product Development**

Glenn discussed his swimming coaching approach, emphasizing the importance of teaching elegant warm-up techniques to young swimmers before focusing on speed. John explained the product development process for the slip fin, using the metaphor of water boiling at 212 degrees to illustrate how small adjustments can lead to significant improvements. Glenn and John both highlighted that the development process involves extensive testing with actual swimmers rather than relying solely on CAD or wind tunnel testing, with John mentioning they likely went through around 100 different designs before settling on the current version.

**Swimming Fin Product Development Insights**

John explained that AI cannot fully replace product development due to the need for iterative improvements based on real-world measurements and feedback. He shared insights about foot measurements for their swimming fin product, noting that 90% of female swimmers aged 13 and older fit in small sizes (21-24 centimeters), while 60% of men fit in medium sizes. John emphasized the importance of proper foot placement in the fin for optimal performance, explaining that swimmers should position their feet 85% into the fin to achieve the best results.

**Innovative Swim Fins Development**

John discussed the development of swim fins that no longer require a heel cup or strap, mentioning that patents are in place in multiple countries. He explained that the fins come in different sizes with an 8% growth difference between sizes, and all products are yellow to make them easily recognizable on production decks. John emphasized their mission to create high-quality technical products that help people swim better for a lifetime.

**Swimming Innovation with Slip Fins**

Van shared his experience with the Dressel Project, which aims to determine if someone can swim as fast as Caleb Dressel for 25 yards using any equipment except a tow boat. He discussed his work with swim fins, particularly highlighting the benefits of slip fins for improving kicking velocity and reducing ankle pain compared to other types of fins. John emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation in swimming, noting how new approaches like slip fins represent a departure from traditional designs that haven't changed in centuries. Glenn asked about recommendations for master swimmers with calf problems, and John suggested slip fins as a more friendly option compared to Zoomer fins.

**Slip Fin Design Discussion**

John explained that the slip fin allows for greater foot movement and flexibility compared to traditional fins like the Zoomer, which have a rigid front end that hinders natural kicking motion. Glenn shared a visual demonstration he created in Claude showing how pointed toes create different water vortices than slightly angled toes, and discussed how the rigid nature of Zoomers can cause calf cramping due to restricted flexibility. John supported this by explaining that their study found the slip fin's design eliminates the forced hinge action that occurs with traditional fins, allowing for more natural and fluid movement.

**Slip-on Fins Sizing Discussion**

John discussed the slip-on fins, addressing common questions about sizing and fit. He explained that there is a learning curve when first using the fins due to the foreign feeling of the gasket around the foot, but users will adapt over time. Suzy asked about sizing issues she experienced, and John recommended trying a medium size and noted that the company offers customer support to help with proper sizing. John also shared positive feedback from recent demos at swimming clubs and mentioned plans to expand the product line to include smaller sizes for younger swimmers and people with disabilities.


July 7, 2024 - Let's Talk Fins

**Promote blood flow to the groin area while lengthening the adductors.**

[**Download the 6-week Training Guide here.**](https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ubwn35ohy01hwae44725d/GoSwim-Giles-Dryland-Guide.pdf?rlkey=g6plhmykd9arz9mzpktnayx59\&st=ojgbeltl\&dl=0)

**Important Note to the Viewer** Before beginning this or any other exercise program, we advise you to consult a physician to make sure that the exercises presented here are safe for you in light of your current physical condition and history. Go Swim Productions, LLC takes no responsibility for any problems that may arise because of your particular condition. As with any exercise program, if at any point during your workout you begin to feel faint, dizzy, or have physical discomfort, you should stop immediately and consult a physician.


1/2 Kneeling Adductor Mobility

**Summary**

**Swimming Camp Teaching Strategies**

Glenn discussed his experience with new coaching shoes and water protection strategies for teaching. He shared updates about his swimming camps, which are fully booked with waiting lists, and noted that three of Rachel's assistant coaches want to work at the camps, leading him to consider adding a third station with video feedback. Glenn explained his teaching approach at the camps, focusing on two key areas that can be most effectively impacted in a short period: distance per cycle for freestyle and breaststroke, and tempo for backstroke and butterfly. He detailed specific teaching methods including using a pole and hammer demonstration and land-based exercises to teach lat activation before swimming portions.

**Swimming Techniques for Children**

Glenn and Andrew discussed teaching swimming techniques to children, focusing on the disconnect between tempo and length, and the importance of helping kids feel proper stroke techniques. They explored using tools like metronomes and specific drills to help children understand and practice proper form. Glenn shared insights about using comparisons to other sports like cycling to explain energy conservation and balance in swimming, and demonstrated a balance progression exercise using a pull buoy to teach children how to maintain balance and save energy through proper body position.

**Swimming Technique Learning Strategies**

Glenn led a discussion on teaching swimming techniques using various sports and movement examples to illustrate key concepts. He shared videos and insights from different sports like swimming, long jumping, golf, pitching, boxing, and kayaking to demonstrate principles such as timing, body connection, and path efficiency. Glenn emphasized the importance of patience, proper form, and situational awareness in swimming, using these examples to help campers understand and improve their techniques. The group discussed specific questions about wrist position in freestyle swimming, with Glenn and others providing insights on technique differences between swimmers like Kara and James. The conversation ended with a brief discussion about the upcoming theme of "Effortless Breathing and Freestyle" for the following week's site content.

How to Achieve Rapid Improvement on Your Critical Swim Data (breakout distance, tempo, distance per cycle) 

 

Monday:  Improve Your Pushoffs and Streamlines

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2980-handlock-and-headlock>

 

Tuesday:  Improve Core Stability on Your Pushoffs

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2992-drop-and-push-to-360-rotation>

 

Wednesday:  Get Out of Your Own Way on Freestyle

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1869-freestyle-disappear-behind-your-hand>

 

Thursday:  Use a Tempo Trainer!

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1710-freestyle-building-a-longer-stroke>

 

Friday:  Improve Your Breaststroke LINE

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/238-connect-hands-head-and-hips-going-to-air>

 

Friday:  Eyes Down into the Wall

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2191-turn-eyes-down>

 

Saturday:  Hone Your UW Dolphin Skills on Front and Back

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1916-turns-underwater-dolphin>

 

Sunday:  Data-Test Your Underwater Dolphins

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2185-all-strokes-tempo-trainer-underwater-dolphins>


June 23, 2026 - Improvement on Data

To further explore the streamline position, lets look at the relationship between the hand lock, and head lock.

With the hands on top of each other, and the thumb wrapped around the side of the bottom hand, this will provide a bit of leverage to squeeze your arms against the side of your head.

By squeezing the arms together, you can see how sleek our swimmer appears. If you’re lucky enough to be swimming outdoors in the sun, this is a great time to look at the shadow you’re creating. That confirms that you’re in the right position.

You’ll notice that this swimmer is so committed to locking the hands, he’s developed a method that overlaps the hands and then brings them together with the top thumb immediately wrapping the side of the bottom hand. As the hands come together, he squeezes the arms onto his head and then jumps off the wall.

By now focusing on the head lock, you will create a more rigid shape that will travel through the water with very little resistance.

To really practice this, try to hold this position until your body pops up to the surface. That’s actually not as easy as it seems, but we’ll look more into that in the next lesson.


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