Glenn Mills and Wayne discuss the potential inclusion of the 50-meter event in NCAA swimming, proposed by the College Swimming Coaches Association (CSCA). They highlight concerns about the event's underwater nature, which may not appeal to spectators. Wayne emphasizes the need for adaptability in coaching to accommodate both sprint and distance events. They debate the impact on longer events, suggesting incentives like bonus points for swimmers competing in multiple distances. Glenn proposes giving more points for longer events to balance the focus. They also discuss the importance of engaging parents and the potential for increased participation if NCAA swimming becomes more visible on TV.


The Third Fifty - 50s in College

**Summer-League Basics:  Finishes in All Four Strokes**

Few things are more agonizing for a coach or swim parent than to see a swimmer lose their race because of a poor finish.  Yet – in practice – few things receive less attention than finishes.

Just like starts, turns, and stroke technique, great finishes can be taught.  Tune in this week to find out how.

**Monday**

**Freestyle Finishes**

The race isn't over until you touch the wall. Let's practice that!

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2163-freestyle-finishes>

**Tuesday**

**Freestyle Finishes – Sticks at the Flags**

A great finish starts before you even get to the flags. We love using sticks on the bottom to build awareness of where the flags are...and how to use them to your advantage.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2164-finishes-flag-ticks>

**Wednesday**

**Freestyle Finishes – Finish Stick**

Here's how we use a stick on the bottom of the pool to help swimmers learn optimum body position at the finish. It works kind of like magic.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2165-finish-finish-stick>

**Thursday**

**Kara Lynn Joyce – Get Your Hand on the Wall**

Kara Lynn Joyce: "In a close race, everything comes down to who can get their hand on the wall first, so this is something I work on every day."

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/662-get-your-hand-on-the-wall>

**Friday**

**Steve Haufler – Teaching the Backstroke Finish**

Backstroke finishes are the toughest to teach and to execute. Of course, Steve Haufler has some ideas.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1299-teaching-the-backstroke-finish>

**Saturday**

**Dave Denniston – The Approach**

The technique for a great butterfly or breaststroke finish is similar to the "approach technique" for a great fly or breast turn (demo'd by Dave Denniston). Adjusting your stroke from the flags to the wall is key. The big difference is that you'll touch beneath the surface with the fingertips.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/880-step-1-the-approach>

**Sunday**

**Breaststroke Drill – The Last Stroke**

This young swimmer is practicing his breaststroke technique...while also learning correct body position for the butterfly and breaststroke finish.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/988-breaststroke-the-last-stroke>

**Swimming Camp Self-Monitoring Success**

Glenn shared his experience at a swimming camp, where he observed an exceptional group of 40 children who demonstrated strong self-monitoring skills and made significant progress in their swimming techniques. He emphasized the importance of teaching simple, actionable concepts that swimmers can apply independently, such as monitoring stroke distance, breakout point, and tempo. Glenn also highlighted a particular success with a young breaststroke swimmer who improved her technique by reducing her stroke count, resulting in faster times. He expressed excitement about the rest of the camp and his approach to teaching swimmers to focus on long-term improvement rather than immediate results.

**Swimming Technique and Pool Safety**

Glenn discussed the importance of teaching swimmers to adjust their technique based on different pool conditions, such as varying angles, peripheral vision, and the presence of rounded corners. He emphasized the need for swimmers to focus on specific points, like the bottom of the cross at the end of the pool, to maintain proper head position. Glenn also highlighted the significance of using flags for all four strokes, adjusting tempo and distance per cycle, and practicing fully extended strokes through repeated drills. He concluded by warning about the dangers of loose flags for young swimmers, who might otherwise risk hitting the wall painfully.

**Swimmer Finish Techniques Demonstration**

Glenn demonstrated techniques for teaching swimmers to improve their finishes, focusing on head position and using PVC pipe markers to help swimmers maintain proper form without looking up. He explained how to create and position the markers, emphasizing the importance of flat edges to prevent movement in the water. Glenn also showed how to use the markers to help swimmers develop an instinctual understanding of where the wall is, allowing them to extend their arms and touch the wall without lifting their heads.

**Swimming Pool Teaching Markers Plan**

Glenn discussed plans for marking a swimming pool to help young swimmers improve their technique. He explained the placement of markers at the 15-meter mark and the 5-yard mark, emphasizing their use for teaching proper push-offs and stroke counts. Glenn also shared a personal story about a coin he created to inspire swimmers, which features the message "Send it forward" and an image of Dave Denniston, a Paralympic swimmer. He plans to use these markers at an upcoming swimming camp to help swimmers develop better finishes.

**Swimming Technique for 50 Free Finish**

Glenn discussed the importance of technique in swimming, particularly focusing on the 50 free finish. He emphasized the need for a precise fingertip touch on the touchpad, as a flat hand could expand the surface area and potentially activate the pad incorrectly. Glenn also highlighted the challenges faced by swimmers, such as adjusting to different pool depths and reorienting their vision, which can affect their ability to finish effectively. He noted that Carolyn and Jack were working on these techniques and shared a video of a swimmer practicing in a deep pool, illustrating the complexities involved in perfecting the finish.

**Swimming Goggle Design and Performance**

Glenn discussed the importance of proper goggle design and head alignment in swimming, emphasizing how Swedish goggles with minimal gaskets allow swimmers to maintain better peripheral vision without lifting their heads. He explained that even small differences in head position and hand finishing can significantly impact performance, potentially determining Olympic team selection. Glenn also mentioned working on starts and turns with his team and shared a humorous anecdote about making dive sticks for practice.

**Swimming Techniques and Lane Etiquette**

Glenn discussed swimming techniques and lane etiquette with the group. He emphasized the importance of proper finishing techniques, including keeping the hand straight and parallel to the surface, and avoiding delays at the touchpad. Glenn also stressed the need to teach lane etiquette early on, as it helps swimmers stay focused and out of each other's way. He noted that it takes about a week for swimmers to get used to lane etiquette once it is properly taught.

**Swimming Techniques and Safety**

Glenn discussed swimming techniques, focusing on proper finishing positions and turns. He emphasized the importance of teaching swimmers to reach back for the wall while maintaining a good head position, and highlighted the need for coaches to pay attention to ensure safety. Glenn also explained recent rule changes that allow for more underwater kicking in backstroke, noting that while this may not be the fastest technique, it is safer for young swimmers.

**Swimming Techniques and Pool Strategies**

Glenn discussed swimming techniques, focusing on the importance of keeping eyes down during turns and finishes to avoid lifting the head unnecessarily. He shared a story about working with Navy athletes to understand and navigate a unique bulkhead design, emphasizing the advantage of knowing pool layouts and markings. Glenn also highlighted a drill for breaststroke swimmers to improve their technique by focusing on each stroke as if it were the final one, resulting in more consistent and powerful strokes throughout the race.

**Swimming Techniques and Session Updates**

Glenn shared his approach to teaching swimming, emphasizing simplicity and proper stroke techniques. Barbara and Mike discussed the importance of teaching children to finish strokes with precision, using analogies and games to reinforce proper technique. Glenn announced a break in his regular sessions due to upcoming travel plans, and mentioned he would resume with a focus on the open turn sequence in the coming weeks.


June 17, 2025 - Summer League - FINISHES!

**Summer-League Basics: Forward Starts and Relay Starts**

It’s that time of year, when kids come out of the woodwork to swim with their local club, rec-center, or country-club team. If you’re lucky enough to coach summer league, one of your biggest challenges is teaching kids how to start from the blocks and to do relay starts without getting DQ’d. This week is all about Forward Starts 101.

**Monday**

**Drill – Deep Pool Vertical Entry**

If you've got a big group of kids who need to learn forward-start basics, start 'em here. Fun, safe drill teaches how to have a rigid bodyline and a clean entry.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1609-starts-deep-pool-vertical-entry>

**Tuesday**

**Steve Haufler – Streamline Jumps**

Steve Haufler starts teaching the forward start on land, with streamline jumps.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2109-streamline-jumps>

**Wednesday**

**Cullen Jones (4-Step Dive Progression)**

When Olympic gold medallist Cullen Jones teaches kids how to dive, he uses this four-step process.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/929-forward-start-4-step-learning-progression>

**Thursday**

**Drill – St. Andrews Starts**

We love this progression for teaching the forward start and for teaching kids how to pierce the water on their entry. The flat-back dive really works!

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2050-starts-st-andrews-starts>

**Friday**

**Steve Haufler – Side Fall Over Noodle**

When teaching young swimmers to dive, you need a huge tool kit. Here's one trick from teaching guru Steve Haufler.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2121-side-fall-over-noodle-streamline-dive>

**Saturday**

**Drill – Dive and Glide**

What kind of line do you carry into the water from your start? Here's how to improve.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1907-all-strokes-dive-and-glide>

**Sunday**

**Drill – Relay Starts – Teamwork**

At the heart of summer swimming are RELAYS! Once kids know the basics of the forward start, it's time to have some fun with relays in practice.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1982-relay-starts-team-work-with-york-ymca>

**Swimming Camp and Technique Review**

Glenn discussed his upcoming summer swimming camp and shared his excitement about working with Diego, focusing on teaching lane etiquette and organization to new master swimmers. He mentioned his personal swimming preparation, including a mile swim in Lake Michigan, and expressed his commitment to promoting inclusivity in the sport. The group reviewed videos on vertical entries and emphasized the importance of safety and proper technique during summer league starts.

**Swimming Vertical Entry Techniques**

Glenn discussed the importance of teaching proper vertical entry techniques in swimming, emphasizing the need for students to maintain a rigid body position and stabilize their core. He explained that the entry should be straight and that students should aim to "pierce" the water, requiring at least 7 feet of water depth, preferably deeper. Glenn also highlighted the significance of observing the splash created by the entry to assess whether the student jumped high enough and didn't lean too far forward, suggesting games to help students improve their technique.

**Efficient Swimming Jump Techniques**

Glenn discussed the importance of teaching swimmers to perform a clean and efficient jump into the water, emphasizing the need for pointed toes to minimize resistance and drag. He highlighted the difference between a pointed toe entry and a flat foot entry, noting that a clean entry results in less surface area and smaller splashes. Glenn also stressed the importance of maintaining a streamline position and jumping higher to improve technique, while cautioning against stepping in without a proper jump.

**Swimming Technique Teaching Strategies**

Glenn discussed proper swimming techniques, focusing on streamlining and push-offs from the wall. He emphasized the importance of teaching children to push off in a streamlined position and transfer power through their arms. Glenn shared a conversation with David Marsh about the challenges of teaching proper technique, even at elite swimming programs. He also provided tips for teaching starts and emphasized the importance of taking small steps and avoiding injuries when teaching young swimmers.

**Water Entry Technique Training Demo**

Glenn demonstrated a progressive teaching method for water entry techniques, starting with seated and kneeling positions before advancing to standing entries. He emphasized the importance of maintaining hand and foot contact with the water during entry to minimize splash and impact, gradually increasing the distance from the wall as athletes become more comfortable. The technique focuses on a "fall" rather than a "push" entry, with Glenn suggesting the use of target markers and bands to help athletes improve their form incrementally.

**Teaching Athletes Safe Water Entries**

Glenn discussed the importance of teaching athletes to perform a controlled fall into the water rather than a jump, emphasizing the need for patience and gradual progression. He highlighted the significance of maintaining a flat back position and proper body alignment during the entry, as well as the importance of ensuring the water depth is appropriate for the athlete's comfort. Glenn also stressed the need to connect arm movements with the fall to create an active start, and he demonstrated how to adjust the distance of the jump based on the athlete's ability.

**Beginner Swimming Techniques Overview**

Glenn discussed teaching swimming techniques to beginners, emphasizing the importance of gradual progression and adapting methods based on the swimmer's age and development level. He suggested starting with simple techniques like pushing off the wall or side before advancing to more complex skills like diving and gliding. Glenn also highlighted the importance of maintaining a good body position and line while swimming, rather than focusing solely on underwater dolphin kicks, which he noted can sometimes be slower than regular swimming for young children.

**Efficient Swimming Techniques Explained**

Glenn discussed swimming techniques, focusing on body position and foot movement to maintain speed and efficiency. He emphasized the importance of a rigid body line and avoiding unnecessary movements that can slow down a swimmer. Glenn also highlighted the concept of "ailerons" in swimming, comparing it to the control surfaces on an airplane, and explained how improper use of feet can scrub off speed. He used examples from videos to illustrate these points and stressed the need for swimmers to focus on clean, efficient movements.

**Swimming Relay Takeoff Techniques**

Glenn discussed techniques for teaching relay takeoffs and marking spots in swimming, emphasizing the importance of understanding momentum, pool depth, and angles. He explained how to adjust starting positions based on the incoming swimmer's speed and the depth of the pool. Glenn also introduced a timer feature in their app to help coaches and athletes improve their timing for relay starts.

**Swimming Start Techniques and Timing**

Glenn discussed the importance of precise timing and technique in swimming starts, emphasizing that swimmers should aim for a takeoff time within 0.3 to 0.1 seconds to avoid disqualifications. He shared his experience using high-speed cameras to analyze relay takeoffs and highlighted the value of tracking incoming swimmers to optimize start timing. Glenn also stressed the need for swimmers, especially younger ones, to focus on skill development over fitness, noting that proper technique can significantly improve performance in shorter races.

**Swimming Stroke Teaching Strategies**

Glenn discussed the importance of teaching a variety of strokes and skills to attract and retain swimmers, emphasizing the need to focus on fundamentals rather than specializing in the 50-meter event. He and Barbara planned to cover teaching progressions for open turns at the next meeting. The group also discussed which strokes are most challenging to maintain personal best times in as swimmers age, with breaststroke and butterfly being commonly cited as difficult.


June 10, 2025 - Summer League Starts

Glenn Mills and Wayne discuss the impact of the new 50-meter sprint events on swimming, particularly at the Olympics. Wayne shares insights from a meeting with Bill Sweetenham, emphasizing the positive opportunities for coaches to engage more athletes. They highlight the increased competitiveness and the need for better skills, timing, and technique. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of sport changes, citing examples from triathlon, cricket, and lacrosse. They stress the importance of adapting to attract more participants and improve the sport's accessibility, particularly for young athletes and their families.

[**Justin Hawkins Rides Again**](https://www.youtube.com/justinhawkinsridesagain) - My musician reference.


The Third Fifty - 50s at the Olympics

**Monday**

**Dave Denniston Drills:  Wall Kick**

Dave Denniston and Staciana (Stitts) Winfield demonstrate a drill that gives immediate and constant feedback on the efficiency of your breaststroke kick.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/183-wall-kick>

**Tuesday**

**Breast Drill:  Single-Leg Kick**

Single-leg breaststroke kick makes you acutely aware of any differences between your right leg and left leg.  It also increases quickness and coordination in the legs and feet.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1026-breaststroke-single-leg-kick>

**Wednesday**

**Breast Drill: Eggbeater Warmup**

Egg-beater kick awakens the inner shin and ankle for a better breaststroke kick.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/833-breaststroke-eggbeater-warmup>

**Thursday**

**Roque Santos: Pull-Buoy Kick**

Olympian Roque Santos demos one of the most effective drills for increasing awareness of kick size and timing.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/497-pull-buoy-kick>

**Friday**

**Felipe Lima: Narrow Kick with Band**

Olympian Felipe Lima uses the FINIS Pulling Strap to help him focus on a more narrow kick.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2663-narrow-kick-with-band-breaststroke>

**Saturday**

**Breast Drill: High Heels Kick**

Practicing Head-Lead Breaststroke Kick on both your front and back gives immediate feedback on how well you’re positioning the thighs, knees, ankles and feet – like sculling for the lower half of your body!

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1353-breaststroke-high-heels-kick>

**Sunday**

**Dave Denniston Drills: 2 Sculls and a Pull**

Here’s the week’s final exam:  a drill that combines sculling with the arms and “sculling” with the feet.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/196-2-sculls-and-a-pull>

**Breaststroke Kicking Technique Workshop**

Glenn led a swimming technique discussion focusing on breaststroke kicking exercises. He demonstrated wall exercises to teach proper heel recovery rather than knee recovery, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a straight line from shoulders to feet while preventing kicking the wall. Glenn explained how to progress from vertical wall kicks to horizontal position kicks, stressing the importance of maintaining movement and connection with the water rather than static kicking. He noted that while Staciana had good hip flexibility, most swimmers would be more flat against the wall, and discussed how to adjust technique based on individual body types and flexibility.

**Breaststroke Kicking Techniques**

Glenn discussed breaststroke technique, focusing on the importance of kicking forward rather than upward and the need to keep heels underwater to avoid kicking air. He explained how flexible ankles can sometimes lead to incorrect kicking form and shared insights from David Marsh about heel-led kicks. Glenn also described a single-leg breaststroke drill he learned from Mike Behrman, emphasizing how it helps swimmers break ingrained patterns and think more critically about their technique.

**Breaststroke Foot Positioning Techniques**

Glenn discussed the importance of foot positioning in breaststroke, explaining that the ideal angle for the foot is 90 degrees to maximize water catch. He noted that some swimmers naturally have better ankle flexibility, allowing them to achieve this position more easily. Glenn emphasized that achieving optimal foot placement requires practice and working with a coach to determine the exact point of catch. He also highlighted the importance of finding the right balance between power and flow in breaststroke, explaining that sometimes slowing down and reaccelerating can produce higher peak velocities.

**Breaststroke and Freestyle Technique Drills**

Glenn discussed the importance of teaching breaststroke and freestyle techniques to make a significant impact on swimmers, emphasizing the need for a better line and glide in these strokes. He demonstrated a drill involving underwater kicking and recovery techniques, highlighting the significance of proper foot placement and the creation of a "cone of disruption" to improve breaststroke performance. Glenn also stressed the importance of helping swimmers become aware of their technique mistakes and the satisfaction of seeing them correct their form.

**Breaststroke Kick Techniques and Safety**

Glenn demonstrated and explained various breaststroke kick exercises, emphasizing the importance of warming up with egg beater kicks to prevent groin injuries. He recommended using PDF fins for smooth underwater filming and explained how they help swimmers develop a better sculling action. Glenn also showcased Rock's technique, highlighting his narrow kick recovery and powerful finish, which he encouraged swimmers to emulate.

**Optimizing Swimming Techniques**

Glenn discussed techniques for improving swimming performance, focusing on exercises using a pull buoy and resistance bands. He analyzed videos of elite swimmers, particularly Felipe, to demonstrate optimal stroke mechanics and recovery positions. Glenn emphasized the importance of maintaining a straight line from the shoulders to the hips and knees during the stroke, and highlighted how world-class sprinters can execute these techniques both in sprints and long, slow distances.

**Breaststroke Technique and Drills**

Glenn and Orin discussed breaststroke technique, focusing on the importance of a narrow recovery and proper foot placement to minimize resistance. They explored various drills, including the "fluke drill" which involves exaggerating the finishing action to improve flow and timing. Glenn emphasized the need for coaches to demonstrate proper technique without swimmers watching, and mentioned teaching a new intern at Northwestern. They also discussed using rubber bands as a tool to help swimmers maintain proper leg position during drills.

**Swimming Technique Training Progression**

Aleks presented a detailed teaching progression for swimming techniques, including underwater dolphin kicks, with specific drills and cues for different age groups and skill levels. He demonstrated how he uses data from swim app analytics and video analysis to create targeted training plans, with the goal of helping swimmers reach gold medal standards in the high performance group. Glenn praised the comprehensive approach, emphasizing that coaches should track athlete performance data to remain competitive.


June 3, 2025 - Breaststroke Sculling…for the Feet!

Glenn and Wayne discuss their recent life changes: Wayne moved from the Gold Coast to Bagotville, NSW, and Glenn from Arizona to near Chicago. They address the impact of Olympic rule changes, such as rugby's shift to 7-aside and lacrosse's shorter format, on sports. They also debate the "enhanced games" concept, which involves athletes focusing on weightlifting and sprint events, and the controversy surrounding performance-enhancing drugs. Both agree that the changes are necessary for the sport's survival and express excitement about their new, shorter podcast format, promising more in-depth discussions in future episodes.


The Third Fifty - Rides Again!

**GoSwim Live - Breaststroke Timing**

No two breaststrokes are alike.  But great breaststrokes share one thing: streamline timing.  Join us this week as we discuss how and why to improve your breaststroke timing and LINE.

**Monday**

**Brendan Hansen: Streamline Timing**

Slow-motion footage of Brendan Hansen reveals his timing.  Get the front end of the body back into streamline before delivering the kick.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/237-streamline-timing>

**Tuesday**

**Amanda Beard: Streamline!**

For Amanda Beard, breaststroke timing comes down to creating as little resistance as possible when she pulls, kicks, and glides.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/524-streamline>

**Wednesday**

**Eric Shanteau: Breaststroke Timing**

“Breaststroke is all about timing.  If your timing is off, different parts of your body are going to be fighting each other and your whole stroke will be off.”  -- Eric Shanteau

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/733-breaststroke-timing>

**Thursday**

**Breaststroke Drill: Kick Recovery Timing (Adam Ritter)**

Here’s how to time the recovery of your kick for a faster breaststroke.  It’s all about maintaining your LINE for as long as possible in each stroke cycle.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2084-breaststroke-kick-recovery-timing>

**Friday**

**Breaststroke Drill: Separation Drill**

Here’s a great combination: Glenn Mills demonstrating a Steve Haufler drill for improving your breaststroke timing.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1391-breaststroke-separation-drill>

**Saturday**

**Breaststroke Drill: Toe-Draw Recovery**

This timing focus lasts for an instant but can have a major impact on improving your breaststroke LINE.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1968-breaststroke-toe-draw-recovery>

**Sunday**

**Breaststroke Drill: Timing Your Breath**

Are you muscling your stroke…or finessing it?  The answer lies in how you time the breath.

<https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/921-breaststroke-timing-your-breath>

Summary

Website Development and Future Plans

Glenn and Thomas discussed the development of Glenn's website, noting its evolution since 2007-2008. They briefly touched on the high cost of transcription services in the past, with Glenn mentioning that AI advancements might now make such services more affordable. The conversation then shifted to Glenn's plans for a clinic and race, which he had to miss this year but hopes to attend next year. The conversation ended with Glenn preparing to start a recording about breaststroke timing, with Berrin confirming the video quality looked good.

Enhancing Young Swimmers' Techniques

Glenn shared insights from a clinic with young swimmers in Indiana, emphasizing the importance of teaching stroke length, stroke rate, and proper technique. He highlighted how focusing on breaststroke can significantly impact young athletes' understanding of swimming concepts. Glenn stressed the significance of achieving a streamlined position and gliding for longer periods, which are skills that elite swimmers can master by slowing down. He also discussed the need to convey to young swimmers the idea that they can emulate the techniques of Olympians by owning the environment of the water and making productive movements.

Breaststroke Technique and Timing

Glenn discussed breaststroke technique, focusing on timing and body position. He emphasized the importance of "down and out" before "up and in" movements, and explained how to achieve a streamlined position underwater. Glenn also highlighted the significance of proper foot engagement and timing, advocating for the front of the body to be ready to accept propulsion before the kick. He stressed the importance of hitting the line at the end of each stroke and encouraged continuous practice of these techniques.

Understanding Amanda's Breaststroke Technique

Glenn discussed the swimming techniques of Amanda, focusing on her breaststroke style and the mathematical principles behind it. He explained that Amanda's high swimming position was not just a rule to follow but had a specific reason, which was later understood through Amanda's analysis. Glenn highlighted how Amanda's technique, particularly her use of the streamline position, differs from what is typically taught, emphasizing the importance of understanding the "why" behind swimming techniques.

Breaststroke Technique Analysis and Adaptation

Glenn analyzed Amanda's breaststroke technique, noting her unique ability to draw her arms high while maintaining power and efficiency. He emphasized that while her technique might appear flawed to beginners, it demonstrates the importance of finding the right balance in breaststroke through mathematical equations and individual adaptation. Glenn also discussed the role of the pole in breaststroke, explaining that it anchors a spot in the water to draw the hips forward, and highlighted Amanda's ankle flexibility and kick strength as key factors in her success.

Breaststroke Kick Technique Analysis

Glenn discussed breaststroke technique, focusing on the timing and positioning of the kick. He analyzed videos of swimmers like Eric Chanto and Adam Ritter to demonstrate how different athletes execute the stroke with varying degrees of kick recovery and flexibility. Glenn emphasized the importance of delayed kicking and full body extension, attributing these techniques to successful coaches like Eddie Reese and David Marsh. He also introduced the separation drill as a method to teach swimmers to delay the initiation of the kick, highlighting its effectiveness in improving stroke technique.

Russian Swimmer's Artistic Breaststroke Technique

Glenn presented a video analysis of a Russian swimmer's breaststroke technique, highlighting her exceptional hip and ankle flexibility, early foot turnout, and smooth foot recovery. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a narrow kick recovery and keeping the toes together for as long as possible during the stroke. Glenn compared the swimmer's technique to Russian ballet, describing it as "artistic" and "beautiful," and suggested that swimmers focus on the sliding motion of the front of the foot and toe during the stroke.

Breaststroke Technique and Movement Fundamentals

Glenn discussed breaststroke technique, emphasizing the importance of proper timing and head position. He showed a video of a swimmer demonstrating incorrect technique, with the head too high. Glenn explained that in breaststroke, the hands should primarily move outwards rather than backwards, using leverage to draw the body forward. He also shared insights from his experience filming with Ernie in 1983, highlighting the minimal backstroke movement in breaststroke. Beth asked about the concept of pushing water backwards versus an "out and in" motion, to which Glenn confirmed that breaststroke involves more of an outwards movement.

Breaststroke Coaching and Technique Discussion

The group discussed breaststroke coaching techniques, with Aleks explaining their focus on separation drills and pull work with children, particularly using butterfly kick to improve timing. Glenn shared a story about a para athlete who demonstrated resilience during a drill involving push-ups for incorrect stroke counts. The discussion covered ankle flexibility exercises and their importance in preventing knee problems, with Glenn recommending specific exercises from a previous "Get Ready to Go Swim" series. The conversation ended with Barbara suggesting future topics, including open water skills and relay starts, with Berrin confirming an upcoming session on sculling.


May 27, 2025 - Breaststroke Timing

In developing a narrow breaststroke kick, we typically default to using the strap to keep the legs together.  Here’s another option.

Why do it:
The biggest problem with breaststroke is the recovery of the kick.  With the athlete’s desire to feel a big push, too often, they recover the feet too high, or too wide.  A narrow and small kick creates less resistance in the setup and requires less propulsion to keep things moving forward.

How to do it:
1 - We use a very small, sand-filled medball.  The sand filled medballs sink if dropped and require a very tight squeeze to keep between the legs.
2 - Understand that this drill is NOT about body position, but just the squeeze of the legs while kicking.
3 - Maximum distance should be a 25, IF THAT.
4 - After the swimmer has done a 25 or two, have them just take a couple of kicks, and the drop the medball.
5 - After they release the medball, the squeeze required to hold it between the legs should also help them feel the narrow kick.

How to do it really well (the fine points):
First, this is NOT an easy drill.  Have the swimmer push off easy, or the medball may pop out right away.  Also, NO LOTION!  If the swimmer has lotion on, it’s just not going to happen (or very slim chance).

Per usual with breaststroke kick, if there is any knee pain, stop doing it.  Also pay specific attention to the groin, as this will require a lot of work... which is an additional benefit for breaststrokers.

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