Prior to watching this meeting, please watch the animated movie that started the conversation.

[**ONE: The Animated Film**](https://youtu.be/EHfqQCyNgaY)

This meeting was a discussion about the film "The Athletic Identity" featuring former swimmers Tom Richner and Aaron Cole, who created an animated film about athletic transitions after college. The conversation included Olympic diver Greg Louganis and Paralympic swimmer Dave Denniston, exploring how athletes navigate life after competitive sports. The participants discussed how athletic identity can be both a strength and a challenge during transitions, with Greg sharing his experience of being defined by his Olympic achievements and Dave describing his difficult journey after a spinal cord injury ended his swimming career. The discussion covered topics including the IOC's Athlete365 Career Plus program, the importance of support systems for athletes, and how coaching can help with the transition process. The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges athletes face in adjusting to life after competitive sports and the importance of maintaining connections with fellow athletes.

**Swim Coaches Meeting Updates**

The meeting began with casual greetings and updates among participants, including Glenn's return after a trip to China and his attendance at the College Swim Coaches Association meeting. Barbara shared her connection to the Denison pool and discussed her background in Worcester. Dave joined the meeting and mentioned the construction of a large pool in Wyoming, noting some challenges with the project. The group discussed logistics for the meeting, including managing participant access and accommodating those with time constraints, such as Aaron who had to leave for a flight.

**Athletic Transition Process Discussion**

Glenn introduced a discussion about the athletic transition process, mentioning a new film and the concept of "Athletic Identity Foreclosure." He invited Tom Richner and Aaron Cole to share their backgrounds. Tom discussed his path from swimming at Denniston to studying animation at UCLA, where he worked on The Simpsons, and later returning to swimming through masters programs. Aaron shared his experience as a lifelong competitive swimmer who transitioned to a career in finance after college, before returning to swimming through masters programs in recent years.

**Animated Film Development Discussion**

The discussion focused on the creation of an animated film about life transitions, with Thomas explaining his role as a character animator on The Simpsons for 38 years and how he approached drawing characters like Lisa Simpson. Aaron shared the motivation behind making the film, which originated from a conversation with a successful alumni who expressed doubt about achieving similar success in the real world after college. Thomas explained that animation was chosen as the medium due to its ability to depict fantasy sequences and battle scenes involving creatures, as well as the opportunity to work with talented artists from places like Disney and the Cleveland Institute of Art.

**Swimming as Safe Haven Story**

The group discussed the opening of a movie that depicts swimming as a safe haven from bullying. Aaron explained that starting with this pain was important for telling an authentic story about how swimming provided a sense of safety and motivation during challenging times. Thomas and Aaron discussed how athletic strengths can become weaknesses in different life contexts, with Aaron noting that while confidence and competitiveness are necessary for athletic success, they may need to be modified in business settings. The conversation touched on how intense passion and obsession required for athletic success can create challenges when transitioning to other areas of life.

**Sports and Artistic Expression Discussion**

Glenn and Thomas discussed the balance between structured sports and artistic expression, with Thomas sharing how his swimming background helped him as an animator by enhancing his understanding of movement. Aaron explained that while he didn't view competitors as monsters in the film, the depiction reflected his personal struggles with demons, and clarified that coaches were present but minimized in the movie to focus on team and relationships. The discussion concluded with Aaron and Thomas reflecting on supporting athletes transitioning out of competitive swimming, including exploring the creation of a Masters team to provide ongoing support to swimmers.

**Greg's Diving Career and Philosophy**

Glenn and Greg discussed Greg's diving career and his approach to the sport. Greg explained that his love and passion were for his coach rather than the sport itself, and he described his coaching philosophy of "coaching from the inside out." Greg shared insights about the artistry and precision required in diving, emphasizing how each dive is a unique creation within the brief moment of execution. The conversation highlighted Greg's perspective on competition and inspiration within the sport, noting how other divers like Bruce Kimball motivated him to achieve greater challenges.

**Defining Identity Beyond Achievements**

Greg shared his early experience as a performer at age 3, where his teacher helped him develop fluid movements by increasing the tempo and expecting immediate success. He discussed how this experience shaped his approach to challenges throughout his life, including his transition from elite sports to regular life after being diagnosed with HIV in 1988. Greg reflected on the challenge of defining himself beyond his athletic achievements and titles, questioning who he is apart from his Olympic success and records. Glenn noted how society can unintentionally define people by their achievements rather than their personal identity.

**Greg Louganis Post-Olympic Life Discussion**

Greg Louganis discussed his experience dealing with public expectations following his Olympic diving career, noting how people often assume they know who he is based on his famous achievements. He reflected on his relationship with coach Ron O'Brien, explaining how he sometimes lived vicariously through Greg's success while giving him choices in training approaches. Greg expressed uncertainty about his identity beyond his athletic achievements and discussed how some of his contemporaries have found it easier to transition away from elite sports due to better support systems.

**Life Transitions and Personal Growth**

Greg and Glenn discussed life transitions and personal growth, with Greg sharing his experiences about embracing self-worth and resilience. Greg emphasized the importance of reframing negative narratives and focusing on blessings, drawing from his own challenging experiences including abuse and adoption. Glenn then transitioned to discussing a former athlete named Dave, who experienced an involuntary transition due to a sledding accident, noting that difficult situations reveal a person's true character.

**Paralympic Athlete Career Transition Discussion**

Glenn and Dave discussed Dave's transition from being an Olympic swimmer to a Paralympic athlete after a spinal cord injury. Dave shared how he learned to redefine his identity beyond being an Olympian and emphasized the importance of confidence and making bold decisions in life. Glenn highlighted Dave's achievements, including his role as a Paralympic coach and head coach at Wyoming, and mentioned their ongoing connection through social media. The conversation ended with Glenn mentioning research on an IOC program called Athletics 365 Career Plus, which aims to support athletes through transitions, though the discussion was cut off.

**Athlete Career Transition Support Systems**

The group discussed Athlete365 Career Plus, focusing on the need for better support systems for athletes transitioning out of competitive sports, particularly in collegiate settings where there is currently only a 22% profit share compared to none for Olympic athletes. Greg shared his personal experience of delayed retirement and the challenges he faced in establishing trust funds for athletes. The discussion concluded with reflections on the importance of mentorship and coaching in athlete transitions, with participants emphasizing the value of community support and sharing resources like the recently created film about athlete transitions.


May 12, 2026 - What Happens After You're Done Competing

**Swimming Lane Etiquette and Management**

Glenn discussed the importance of lane etiquette and organization in swimming, emphasizing that it goes beyond proper technique to include spatial awareness, time literacy, social negotiation, and situational reading. He explained that effective lane management teaches respect, responsibility, and the correct feelings associated with proper swimming form, which athletes carry with them throughout their lives. Glenn introduced Mike Wren, a guest presenter with extensive swimming experience and a large program, who will share insights on how lane effectiveness can help build successful swim teams and businesses.

**Nitro Safety Protocols Discussion**

Mike emphasized the importance of safety at Nitro, explaining that they limit lanes to no more than 6 children and ensure safe group sizes. He noted that while Nitro provides a reliable service for families, no program has all the answers and continuous improvement is essential. Mike also highlighted the need for consistent reminders for children, referencing a tip from Chris Kubick about making points quickly based on a child's age.

**Swimming Coaching Strategy Discussion**

Mike discussed coaching strategies, emphasizing the importance of creating a welcoming environment for new swimmers, particularly those who may feel out of place due to their appearance or skill level. He suggested involving experienced swimmers to help integrate new members and highlighted the need for coaches to manage lane arrangements and swimming order to ensure safety and positive experiences. Mike also addressed the challenge of dealing with "alpha" swimmers and their parents, advocating for coaches to make decisions about lane positions rather than leaving it to the swimmers or parents.

**Building Swimmer Connections Through Names**

Mike emphasized the importance of remembering swimmers' names and creating meaningful connections during practice sessions, particularly with younger athletes. He shared a technique of ending practices by asking about feelings before and after, followed by a command for swimmers to acknowledge three unfamiliar peers using names. Glenn noted that swimming is inherently an individual sport and expressed skepticism about the approach, though Mike stressed the value of empathy and connection in coaching. The discussion concluded with Glenn referencing an old article about engaging practices, highlighting that boring workouts are a result of boring coaching rather than the workout design itself.

**Mentorship and Community in Coaching**

Glenn and Mike discussed the importance of mentorship and building community in sports coaching. Mike shared his approach of connecting with swimmers emotionally and ensuring they feel supported, emphasizing the shift from focusing solely on results to prioritizing player well-being. Glenn reflected on lessons learned from his father, an insurance salesman turned coach, about the importance of daily emotional connection with team members. They agreed that building strong relationships with athletes is crucial for retention in youth sports, especially as numbers decline.

**Pool Management System Discussion**

Glenn, Allison, and Raven discussed their pool management system at Nitro, which uses detailed Excel spreadsheets to organize swimming groups across their 23-lane pool. The system includes color-coded groups with specific times, blocks, and lane assignments, with pool maps displayed throughout the facility to help both kids and staff navigate the schedule. The discussion covered how different groups can shift between lanes throughout the week and how the pool configuration changes between long course and short course operations, with the pool being divided into separate sections for different practice sessions.

**Nitro Pool Scheduling System Overview**

Allison explained the pool scheduling system at Nitro, where short course lanes are used for younger groups in the afternoon while older swimmers use long course lanes in the morning, with a switch planned for June 1st. Glenn compared this approach to collegiate swimming programs and emphasized how the structured lane organization allows for focused training and development. Glenn highlighted that Nitro's decision to limit lanes to 6 swimmers rather than maximizing revenue by adding more swimmers helps maintain proper technique and allows for better coaching attention, which he identified as a key differentiator in the swimming industry.

**Cedar Park Swim Operations Updates**

Mike discussed the operations at the Cedar Park location, which has been open for nearly 20 years. He explained how they transitioned to back-to-back swim lessons after visiting the Hubbard Swim School, which helped maximize pool time by reducing gaps between groups. Mike also noted how longer school days have impacted their scheduling, with afternoon groups now starting later due to school districts extending end times. Allison shared her practice of ensuring equipment is packed up before the end of lessons to maintain smooth transitions between groups, while Raven discussed strategies for managing children who want to swim in the front lanes, particularly in the intro group with 7-year-olds.

**Teaching Clock Reading to Swimmers**

Glenn and Raven discussed teaching clock reading and lane management to younger swimmers. Raven explained her method of teaching one-minute intervals on the pool deck using kickboards and fins, starting with basic counting and gradually increasing complexity. The discussion highlighted how some young swimmers naturally develop countdown habits, and Raven noted that while some groups adopt this practice organically, it's left to the group's preference. The conversation also touched on how learning to read clocks can improve basic math skills, with Mike sharing an anecdote about how analog clocks helped improve math comprehension in swimming contexts.

**Coaching Strategies and Best Practices**

The meeting focused on coaching strategies and best practices. Raven shared that he repeats the mantra "sync, streamline, push" multiple times daily to emphasize key coaching principles. Glenn emphasized the importance of maintaining human connections with swimmers and limiting lane numbers to improve quality. The discussion addressed how to provide individual instruction within group settings, with Mike sharing an example of how coach Henry worked with struggling swimmers while maintaining oversight of the main group. The conversation ended with questions about handling move-ups, though this topic was not fully addressed in the provided transcript segment.

**Swimming Program Group Moves Discussion**

The team discussed group moves in swimming programs, with Mike emphasizing the importance of using appropriate terminology and ensuring swimmers are placed in the most appropriate group to maximize their potential. Allison and Raven explained that while there are no published standards for group moves, coaches use a progression document and make moves based on performance and skill development throughout the season. Jack raised a question about using AI for coaching feedback with large groups of swimmers, to which Glenn responded that while AI can handle general questions, individualized coaching responses require detailed data on each swimmer's performance.


April 14, 2025 - Lane Effectiveness - Maximizing the Experience, and Growing your Program

**Youth Coaching Standards and Technique**

David emphasized the importance of setting high standards in coaching, particularly during the critical 11-13 year old age window when athletes develop fundamental skills. He noted that college coaches often lack time to correct technique issues due to the limited 24-week season, making proper development in youth essential. David stressed that proper arm extension technique is crucial for speed, and that college programs typically focus on adding power rather than retraining stroke techniques.

**Swimming Technique Teaching Approaches**

Glenn discussed three paths for teaching young swimmers, emphasizing the importance of teaching proper technique over pure training. David agreed with a "teach-first" approach, citing examples like Anthony Urban who succeeded due to superior technical skills rather than strength. The group discussed how specific strengths are required for different swimming styles, with Jeff noting that Anthony's unique stroke requires specific strength characteristics. Glenn proposed Path 3 as teaching with awareness of self, which he believes Steve exemplifies through his approach.

**Coaching Techniques and Skill Development**

David emphasized the importance of contrasting techniques in coaching, suggesting that focusing on specific skills rather than trying to perfect everything will lead to better results. He discussed the balance between "flow" and "thrash" in swimming, noting that while flow is important, young swimmers should be allowed to compete with their natural competitive instincts. Steven added that developing proper body posture on land is crucial before introducing it in the water, while Aleks highlighted the need for coaches to have multiple ways to explain concepts to athletes of different ages and skill levels.

**Swimming Technique and Body Alignment**

David and Glenn discussed the importance of proper technique in planks and floating exercises for swimmers. David emphasized that many athletes, including professionals, struggle with maintaining correct body position during floating and planks. Glenn suggested that these foundational skills should be taught early and consistently practiced to ensure retention as athletes grow and mature. They agreed that continuing this training process would help athletes maintain proper form and body alignment, ultimately benefiting their swimming performance.

**Youth Athlete Physical Performance Discussion**

The discussion focused on addressing physical issues in young athletes, particularly related to prolonged sitting and its impact on hip flexors and glute firing. Aleks shared insights from Zionsville's coaching staff about dedicating significant time to on-land movements before water activities, emphasizing the importance of counteracting the effects of prolonged sitting. Glenn discussed the need to teach young athletes the importance of performance and ownership in their training, drawing parallels to other performance-based sports like theater and martial arts.

**Engaging Children in Learning Activities**

The group discussed engaging children in learning through fun activities and games. Steven emphasized the importance of making learning exciting and using tools and toys to keep students engaged. David shared insights from his coaching experience, highlighting how observing athletes during warm-ups and practice can reveal important information about their team dynamics and skills. The discussion included examples of specific games like underwater torpedo, which David noted was particularly effective for evaluating swimmers' abilities and competitive spirit.

**Swimming Training Techniques Discussion**

The group discussed training techniques and best practices for swimming, focusing on creative drills and games to enhance skill development. David shared memories of implementing engaging activities at Team Elite practices, including underwater torpedo games and slide exercises that incorporated streamline techniques and stroke counting. The discussion highlighted the importance of teaching proper practice etiquette and self-analysis skills to young swimmers before they reach puberty, with Glenn emphasizing how these foundational skills help prevent injuries and establish good habits at the college level. The conversation concluded with a discussion about Scott Tucker's swimming technique transformation at Auburn University, though this portion was cut off in the transcript.

**Swimming Technique Observation Strategies**

David and Glenn discussed the importance of observing high-level swimming practices to understand and improve techniques. David shared examples of changing swimmers' strokes based on their strengths and goals, emphasizing the need for coaches to know what "great" looks like by observing higher-level competitions. Glenn agreed on the value of observation and mentioned requiring students to watch ASU meets to learn from Olympians. They also touched on the importance of preparing swimmers for their goals and ensuring they develop the skills necessary for their aspirations.

**Swimming Stroke Training Techniques**

The discussion focused on stroke counting and training techniques in swimming. Aleks explained how they use data collection through an app to provide challenging parameters for swimmers, emphasizing the importance of allowing athletes to make mistakes as part of the learning process. Monty asked about critical periods in swimming training, to which David responded that while swimmers can improve significantly, transitioning from good to great performance may be more challenging if foundational skills weren't developed early. David provided an example of modifying technique for specific situations, noting that he advised certain swimmers to eliminate their dolphin kick off the wall during certain races.

**Late-Bloomer Swimmers Developmental Programs**

The group discussed challenges in introducing late-bloomer swimmers to competitive swimming, particularly around age 11-12. Mark from U.S.A. Swimming noted that while clubs are not required to have developmental programs for 13-17 year olds, creating such opportunities could help identify talent. The discussion highlighted concerns about tendons being susceptible to injury during puberty, with Ben questioning whether U.S.A. Swimming should mandate certain developmental programs. Glenn agreed to send out a presentation on body balance, streamline and glide techniques to meeting participants via email the following day.


April 7, 26 - Growth with David Marsh & Steve Haufler

**Swimming Techniques and Training Approaches**

Glenn and Aaron discussed swimming techniques and training approaches, particularly inspired by Cameron McAvoy's recent 50-meter world record performance. Glenn explained how their weekly theme discussions evolved from detailed video analysis during COVID to focusing on technical endurance and training specificity. The conversation highlighted how modern swimmers like McAvoy practice at race pace more frequently than traditional approaches where athletes might only hit race pace twice a year during actual competitions.

**Swimming Coaching Evolution Discussion**

Aaron and Glenn discussed the evolution of swimming coaching approaches, with Aaron sharing insights from listening to a coach's interviews about differentiating between physical and psychological fatigue in swimming. Glenn reflected on his experience training under Dave Salo, emphasizing the importance of race-specific training rather than general fitness. The conversation touched on modern trends in swimming coaching, including the integration of mental and physiological training approaches, and the need to make swimming more engaging for young athletes through gamified skill development while maintaining proper aerobic base training.

**Backstroke Technique Discussion**

Glenn shared a video of Aaron Peirsol swimming backstroke to demonstrate a unique swimming technique that focuses on body maneuverability and connection from head to toe. Aaron explained that backstroke allows for a different kind of body movement compared to freestyle, with the arms behind the swimmer requiring manipulation of the body and a one-arm pull-out motion. He described how observing weight room exercises inspired his approach to swimming, particularly noting the connection between the arms and legs in pole vaulting exercises.

**Swimming Techniques and Performance Data**

Aaron discussed swimming techniques, particularly focusing on the importance of leg rhythm and harmony between arms and legs in swimming strokes. He explained how backstroke can be easier to balance compared to freestyle due to breathing patterns. Glenn then showed Aaron data from an app, highlighting impressive performance metrics including minimum 13 yards on every breakout and 4 cycles on most lengths, except for the third length which had 3.5 cycles.

**Youth Swimmer Performance Improvements**

Aaron and Glenn discussed the significant performance improvements observed in younger swimmers compared to previous generations. Aaron expressed skepticism that improved training methods alone could explain the difference, suggesting that psychological factors and changing perceptions of performance limits might play a larger role. Glenn proposed that the improvements could be attributed to a higher percentage of coaches implementing specific techniques, particularly around underwater swimming, with consistent daily practice leading to measurable gains over time.

**Swimming Techniques and Training Approaches**

The group discussed swimming techniques and training approaches, with Glenn emphasizing the importance of being intentional and precise rather than focusing solely on distance. Doug noted that modern training prioritizes technical endurance over traditional high-volume approaches, allowing swimmers to develop and practice specific skills at high integrity. The discussion concluded with Doug asking about Eddie's technical abilities, particularly highlighting how his technique might not receive enough recognition despite Texas's legendary swimming program.

**Eddie's Competitive Swimming Environment**

Aaron reflected on his experience swimming with elite athletes under Eddie's coaching, noting that the environment and high-level competitors pushed swimmers to improve naturally rather than through technical stroke changes. He observed that the talented swimmers like Crocker, Neal Walker, and Nate Doosing were already performing well, and Eddie was effective at identifying and encouraging promising athletes to thrive in that competitive environment. Aaron acknowledged that while Eddie had technical expertise, the neurological habits of college-age swimmers made it difficult to significantly alter their strokes, and the best results came from the natural competitive pressure rather than explicit technique modifications.

**Swimming Techniques and Strength Training**

The group discussed swimming techniques and development, with a focus on how strength training outside of water can benefit swimmers. Glenn shared insights about his experience at Texas, emphasizing how intentional strength training helped him transition to swimming like an adult. The discussion also touched on the balance between technique development and physical growth, with Glenn noting that some current training processes have a better understanding of hydrodynamics than previous methods.

**200m Backstroke Training Differences**

Aaron discussed the differences between training for the 100-meter and 200-meter backstroke events. He explained that while you can train for the 100 and potentially perform the 200, the reverse is not true due to the different physiological demands of each race. Aaron emphasized the importance of maintaining tension during the third 50 meters in a 200-meter race and highlighted the unique balance required between strength and aerobic capacity in 200-meter training, noting that training for the 200 limits how much weight one can gain compared to training for the 100.

**Swimming Performance and Technique Discussion**

Aaron and Glenn discussed the differences between short course and long course swimming performances, noting that swimmers often perform better in short course due to the ability to rely more on strength. They explored the importance of engaging the obliques in swimming, using the analogy of pulling a body out of water to illustrate the need for core compression and connection from fingertips to toes. Glenn referenced a previous discussion about how all elements of swimming must work together, like an eight-person rowing crew, and shared his personal struggle with never being fully satisfied with his achievements.

**Swimming Technique and Career Breaks**

Glenn and Aaron discussed the challenges of achieving a perfect swimming stroke and the importance of taking breaks in a career. Aaron shared his experience of stepping away from swimming for extended periods, which helped him return with renewed energy and perspective. He emphasized that slowing down and taking breaks is crucial for making lasting changes in technique, though this goes against the typical high-intensity culture in swimming. Glenn concluded by sharing a personal story about a break Aaron took with friends, which later led to Aaron breaking a world record, highlighting the value of balance and enjoyment in the sport.

**Ocean Swimming Technique Training Session**

Aaron shared his experience teaching swimming techniques in challenging ocean conditions, emphasizing how experienced swimmers can benefit from learning to navigate moving water. He described bringing two world-class swimmers, Brandon Hanson and Ian Crocker, to experience big waves, which helped them develop a new skill set and stay engaged with the water. The group discussed the importance of getting out of their comfort zones and learning to adapt in different water environments. It was noted that Aaron would not be available next week, and Alex would return the following week.


April 1, 2026 - Aaron Peirsol - Backstroke & Other Stuff

A short, soundless clip showing how Aaron keeps his kick continuous during backstroke.


Aaron's Kick

Sign up for Wayne's substack:

<https://waynegoldsmith.substack.com>

Sign up for Doug's substack:

<https://swimpler.substack.com/>

**Swimming World Record Discussion**

Glenn and Wayne discussed a recent swimming world record performance by Cam McAvoy, noting the impressive velocity maintenance and positive feedback about McAvoy's character. Wayne raised concerns about potential misinformation regarding McAvoy's training methods spreading online, which could present challenges for coaches. The discussion then transitioned to the topic of technical endurance, with Glenn introducing the concept and mentioning that Doug had suggested this topic for discussion. The meeting began with Glenn expressing concern for friends affected by recent global events, including those in Iran and around the world.

**Swimming Technical Endurance Training Discussion**

Glenn and Wayne discussed the importance of technical endurance in swimming, emphasizing the need for proper technique, skills, and mental composure during endurance training. Wayne explained that coaching should focus on achieving maximum speed with race mechanics, straight-line swimming, and mental control, rather than just meeting heart rate or lap targets. He noted a recent trend toward greater accuracy and precision in swimming programming.

**Swimming Coaching Techniques Discussion**

Glenn shared his experience coaching a 58-year-old former NFL player who is learning to swim a 50 free, highlighting the player's progress and coachability despite initial challenges with technique. Doug discussed his approach to coaching, emphasizing the importance of technical endurance and sharing a story about a challenge he gave to senior swimmers to demonstrate the importance of maintaining technique under fatigue. Both speakers agreed on the significance of building technical endurance through gradual progression and consistent practice of proper technique.

**Technical Endurance in Swimming Training**

Doug explained his concept of "technical endurance" in swimming, describing a training approach called the "Butterfly Gauntlet" that gradually increases difficulty while maintaining consistent stroke patterns and breathing. He emphasized that swimmers often break down their technique during fatigue due to the increased resistance required to maintain proper form during high-intensity sets. Doug suggested that coaches should focus on helping swimmers maintain technique under fatigue and recommended testing swimmers' ability to perform continuous butterfly strokes before introducing more challenging sets.

**Technical Endurance in Swimming Training**

Glenn presented his concept of "technical endurance" in swimming, developed through discussions with AI, focusing on training athletes to recognize and push their technical limits without breaking down. He discussed how swimmers often operate in a "gray zone" without fully understanding their technical ceiling, drawing parallels to other sports like golf, diving, rowing, and cycling to illustrate the importance of proper technique, body position, and system synchronization. Glenn emphasized that swimmers must learn to recognize technical failure as catastrophic and stressed the importance of starting with proper fundamentals, particularly learning to float correctly, before building technical endurance.

**Swimming Technique and Coach Focus**

Doug discussed the importance of technique in swimming, explaining how automaticity can hinder neuroplasticity and prevent athletes from improving their skills. He emphasized the need for swimmers to focus on foundational elements before advancing to more complex techniques, citing research on motor learning and the example of Michael Phelps. Glenn shared a recent experience with a young swimmer from the UK who was double breathing, highlighting the importance of proper observation and correction by coaches. Both speakers agreed that coaches should pay close attention to technique and make adjustments when necessary to prevent bad habits from forming.

**Swimming Technique and Conditioning Balance**

Wayne discussed the balance between technical conditioning and aerobic development in swimming, sharing insights from his experience managing Australia's largest learn-to-swim program. He explained how commercial learn-to-swim programs often prioritize getting children to swim full laps quickly, which can compromise technique, particularly breathing patterns. Wayne emphasized the importance of accuracy and precision in training, noting a shift towards varied training approaches rather than consistent high-volume sessions, and shared a drill involving 650-yard swims at progressively faster paces to help athletes develop efficient stroke mechanics under fatigue.

**Technical Swimming Development Strategies**

Wayne discussed the importance of technical development workouts being conducted at race pace rather than slow speeds, explaining that coaches often focus too much on drills at kicking speed without properly testing technique under fatigue. Glenn and Wayne explored how commercial imperatives in learn-to-swim programs conflict with technical development, as parents prefer to see laps rather than technical drills. The group discussed teaching methods, with Doug suggesting starting backstroke lessons by having students kick on their back first to establish proper body position before adding arm movements, rather than starting with freestyle which can create imbalances. Mike expressed how Wayne's insights were causing him to rethink his entire coaching program and praised the discussion for its intellectual depth.


March 24, 2026 - Technical Endurance

**Championship Preparation and Tapering Strategies**

Glenn and Alex presented a session focused on championship preparation and tapering strategies in swimming. Glenn shared insights about readiness during warm-ups and emphasized the importance of being present-minded rather than overthinking preparation. Alex demonstrated his detailed setup and sequences for preparing athletes, which Glenn praised highly. The session included a preview of a new app being developed for GoSwim, though the specific details and functionality were not disclosed in the recording.

**Age Group Swimming Taper Strategy**

Aleks presented a video recording of a championship season workout for 13-and-over swimmers preparing for an age group state meet. He explained his approach to tapering, which involves cycling through sprint, pace, and aerobic days, with the day before a meet typically being an aerobic day focused on technique and low-intensity swimming. Aleks described his workout structure, which starts with land-based warm-up activities (10-20 minutes) to maximize pool time in their crowded facility, followed by skill development and preparation phases before performance elements. The presentation included raw footage showing real coaching situations, including moments where swimmers didn't follow instructions perfectly, demonstrating the challenges of group coaching in practice.

**Optimizing Practice and Athlete Independence**

Aleks discussed his approach to managing practice timing and structure, explaining how he creates opportunities for faster swimmers while allowing slower ones to prepare at their own pace. He described implementing a consistent daily warm-up routine that helps develop athlete independence, particularly during championship preparation periods. The warm-up includes a "cheetah" drill (1225 variable sprint) and focuses on teaching athletes to adapt the routine for different environments. The session concluded with Aleks explaining their skills work, which includes underwater kicking drills and the use of fins to enhance technique development.

**Swimming Drills and Technique Review**

Aleks demonstrated various swimming drills to Glenn, including sidekick, pro drill, 3-tap, and pause drill, explaining the techniques and proper form for each. Aleks emphasized the importance of slowing down and feeling the water pressure during the pro drill and noted that some athletes were rushing through the movements. The drills were designed to focus on balance, extension, and recovery in preparation for upcoming meets.

**Optimizing Stroke Efficiency in Swimming**

Aleks demonstrated a "mini-max" swimming set that helps swimmers optimize stroke efficiency while maintaining speed. The set involves swimming 25, 50, and 100-meter freestyle distances with specific stroke and time targets calculated from the initial 25-meter performance. He showed examples of two athletes successfully completing the set, with one notable case of a 13-year-old swimmer who used stroke counting techniques to achieve a senior state cut time in the mile. The discussion concluded with a debate about race strategy, where Aleks emphasized the importance of giving swimmers specific, actionable cues rather than just telling them to "go race," while other participants shared their approaches to helping young swimmers develop race mentalities.


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