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June 10, 2025 - Summer League Starts

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.

The Third Fifty - 50s at the Olympics

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 - My musician reference.

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

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.

The Third Fifty - Rides Again!

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.

May 27, 2025 - Breaststroke Timing

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 20, 2025 - Butterfly Rhythm

Butterfly Timing and Rhythm “Rhythm and timing are so important in butterfly. When you get the rhythm and timing just right, it can feel like you’re FLYING through the water.” – Misty Hyman, 2000 Olympic gold medalist, 200 butterfly Join us this week as we search for effortless butterfly. Monday Misty Hyman: Two Kicks Per Stroke “When I think about butterfly timing, I think about taking two kicks per stroke. I kick my hands in…and kick my hands out.” https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/853-two-kicks-per-stroke-updated Tuesday Building a Better Butterfly: Vertical Butterfly Jumps To teach butterfly timing, start by teaching a proper pull and recovery pattern. This can be done on deck…or by doing vertical butterfly jumps. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/3161-vertical-butterfly Wednesday Building a Better Butterfly: Kick When the Hands Land After mastering a proper pull pattern when vertical, take it horizontal. To focus on timing, land the kick simultaneously with landing the hands. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/3158-kick-when-the-hands-land Thursday Building a Better Butterfly: Two Kicks in Front To transition to full-stroke butterfly, add a second kick while the hands are still out in front of the body. This timing can be especially effective for Masters swimmers. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/3159-two-kicks-in-front Friday Building a Better Butterfly: Single-Arm Butterfly Single-arm fly is the time-tested drill for teaching effective butterfly timing, particularly two kicks per armstroke. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/3165-single-arm-butterfly Saturday Building a Better Butterfly: Single-Arm Butterfly – 2 Right/2 Left Here’s another proven drill for imprinting butterfly timing and rhythm. Try it with fins! Try it with a FINIS Tempo Trainer! https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/3167-single-arm-butterfly-2-right-2-left Sunday Dave Denniston Breaststroke Drills: Butterfly/Breaststroke Combo Here’s your final exam for mastering butterfly rhythm and timing. Denniston and Winfield (Stitts) are pure poetry. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/193-butterfly-breaststroke-combo Summary Butterfly Rhythm and Timing Techniques Glenn led a meeting focused on butterfly rhythm and timing, using videos from the Go Swim app featuring Misty Hyman, an Olympic champion. Participants discussed filming techniques and planned to record Steve using the slipstream device, with Berrin agreeing to capture footage and edit it. Glenn emphasized the importance of rhythm in butterfly swimming and shared videos to demonstrate proper technique. The session was informal, and participants were encouraged to ask questions and provide comments. Butterfly Swimming Technique Overview Glenn discussed butterfly swimming technique, focusing on body position and rhythm. He explained the stressed position and how to transition into a more natural position, emphasizing the importance of timing the kicks with hand movements. Glenn also covered exercises to help athletes develop the correct rhythm and technique, including using fins for body dolphin kicks. He addressed common misconceptions about butterfly kicks and stressed the importance of consistency in teaching. Butterfly Swimming Technique Demonstration Glenn demonstrated a butterfly swimming technique focusing on body position and breathing. He explained how to maintain the correct head and chin position to avoid going too deep underwater, using Misty's Olympic-winning technique as an example. Glenn emphasized the importance of the "down and out, up and in" motion for rhythm and timing, particularly for breaststroke, and highlighted how this exercise helps swimmers learn to breathe without using their arms. He also discussed the benefits of keeping a slight cap sighting for younger swimmers and the value of reviewing and planning each stroke phase. Swimming Techniques and Efficiency Training Glenn and Steve discussed swimming techniques, focusing on exercises to improve stroke efficiency and rhythm. They emphasized the importance of maintaining a stable position, keeping hands still, and using a sweeping motion to enhance timing and balance. Steve introduced a new "Monster" component for more advanced swimmers to set up a high early catch. They also highlighted the benefits of using fins and a snorkel for extended practice and introduced key phrases like "float," "diamond angel," and "swing" to simplify and reinforce proper technique. Single-Arm Butterfly Stroke Techniques Glenn demonstrated and explained various techniques for teaching single-arm butterfly stroke, emphasizing the importance of focusing on specific movements like "kick the hands out" and "pop the hips" to improve timing and coordination. He highlighted the use of fins and the need for patience in practicing these drills, noting that they are effective for building the second kick without overwhelming the swimmer. Glenn also discussed the importance of breathing to the side in straight butterfly to maintain a straight head position and the need to avoid breathing on full strokes during these exercises. Butterfly-Breaststroke Drill Techniques Glenn discussed a drill that combines butterfly and breaststroke, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a consistent rhythm throughout the stroke. He explained how to adjust technique to maintain rhythm, using examples from Olympic swimmers like Staciana and Davo. Glenn also addressed questions about single-arm drills, breaststroke kick timing, and the legality of using breaststroke kicks in butterfly races for masters swimmers. He stressed the importance of delaying the recovery of the legs in breaststroke to prevent pushing effects and improve technique. Butterfly Technique and Timing Discussion The group discussed breath timing and butterfly technique, with Mike sharing his approach of teaching arms to start and end in the front to prevent late breathing. They reviewed a recent article by Doug Cornish on swimswam that demonstrated proper timing and body position in butterfly. The conversation also covered a vertical drill involving jumping off the bottom and taking one stroke before breathing, which Mike was planning to use in his training. Butterfly Swimming Teaching Techniques The group discussed various techniques for teaching butterfly swimming, with Aleks sharing his method of using a "thumbs up" drill to prevent hand dominance and Glenn agreeing it was an effective way to eliminate errors. Orin raised concerns about struggling butterfly swimmers who maintain an incorrect U-shape in the water despite drills, and Glenn suggested watching Misty's video for solutions. The discussion included several troubleshooting tips, including using a tempo trainer, early arm exit, and lane line drills, with Karen and others sharing their experiences with different coaching approaches.

Apr. 29, 2025 - Adult - Teaching Progression for Freestyle

Adult Learn to Swim: Teaching Progression for Freestyle Join us this week as we share one of our favorite progressions for taking beginning swimmers from the floating stage to full-fledged freestyle with cheek-in-the water rotary breathing. It starts with kicking on the back! Monday Freestyle 101: Head-Lead Kick on Your Back This simple drill teaches many important concepts: body alignment, balance, proper kick, relaxation, and trust that the water will support you with just a small amount of effort. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1378-head-lead-kick-on-your-back Tuesday Freestyle 101: Head-Lead Kick on Your Back – Side to Side The easiest way to get adults comfortable with rotating side to side is to start on the back. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1384-head-lead-kick-on-your-back-side-to-side Wednesday Freestyle 101: Extended Balance, Nose Up/Nose Down A simple drill that teaches many freestyle concepts: balance, length, rotation, rhythmic breathing. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1741-extended-balance-nose-up-nose-down Thursday Freestyle 101: Position 11 – Kick on Your Stomach This simple drill teaches where to look and how to press in at the sternum to maintain horizontal body line. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1743-position-11-kick-on-your-stomach Friday Freestyle 101: Single Switch Single Switch is the first big step toward actual freestyle. It slows things down so you can teach key technique points for good freestyle…things like extension, rotation, and timing. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1745-position-11-single-switch Saturday Freestyle 101: Triple Switch Inching closer to actual freestyle. Don’t let old habits re-emerge! https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1746-position-11-triple-switch Sunday Freestyle 101: Position-11 Freestyle Here’s the drill that lets you help swimmers make a smooth transition from drilling to swimming, without letting old habits re-emerge. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1747-position-11-freestyle

May 13, 2025 - Butterfly Makeover for Adults

This week we look at two ways to hit the REFRESH button on your butterfly: changing your head position and changing the way you release your hands. Both tweaks will help you achieve a higher stroke rate and may solve some persistent technique issues. Come join us! Monday Butterfly Drill: Short Release Changing from a long release to a short release may seem like a small change, but it can make a huge difference in your ability to swim butterfly. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1972-butterfly-short-release Tuesday Frentsos: Butterfly Update – Eyes Up We started with a change in head position and depth to update Jerry Frentsos’s butterfly and help him achieve a higher stroke rate. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2336-butterfly-update-eyes-up Wednesday Worrell: Butterfly Head Maintaining a stable head/neck alignment helps Olympian Kelsi (Worrell) Dahlia achieve a quick cadence in her butterfly. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2324-butterfly-head Thursday Frentsos: Butterfly Update – Early Release Changing from a late release to an early release of the hands helped Jerry Frentsos achieve a higher rate for his butterfly. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2337-butterfly-update-early-release BONUS Karlyn Pipes All Strokes: Butterfly Contrast Drills https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/371-fly-contrast-drills Friday Kaitlin Sandeno: Slow-Motion Butterfly Notice how Kaitlin initiates her arm recovery with a quick outsweep to the side…rather than pushing back toward the feet. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/571-slow-mo-butterfly-kaitlin-sandeno Saturday Wu Peng: Fly from the Side Chinese Olympian Wu Peng also initiates his arm recovery with a quick sweep to the side, rather than pushing back. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1188-butterfly-from-the-side Sunday Butterfly Drill: Fast-Fin Fly 2 One of the best ways to increase your butterfly cadence is to put on some fins and swim at above race pace. Unnecessary amplitude may disappear, and you may find that a quick, short release of the hands happens automatically. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/955-butterfly-fast-fin-fly-2 AI Meeting Summary Adult Learn to Swim Series In the meeting, Glenn discussed the upcoming adult learn to swim series, focusing on butterfly techniques. He emphasized the importance of making the technique easier, increasing tempo, and simplifying the recovery. Glenn also mentioned a new video that came in, which he planned to show later. The meeting was attended by several participants, including Robert, who shared his plans to go on a swim trek in Turkey. Glenn also mentioned that he had a meeting with a coach from MIT, discussing the potential of involving more departments in athletics. Early Hand Release in Swimming Glenn discussed the importance of early hand release in swimming, emphasizing that it feels different than it looks. He explained that the early release allows for easier arm recovery and a faster tempo. Glenn also highlighted the need for coaches to film their athletes to accurately assess their technique, as the feel of the stroke can be misleading. He used examples from videos to illustrate the subtle differences between regular and early hand release. Swimming Techniques: Head Position and Breathing Glenn discussed the importance of head position and breathing in swimming, particularly in butterfly strokes. He emphasized that a higher head position allows for easier recovery of arms and better breathing, which can increase rate and tempo without increasing work. Glenn also highlighted the importance of body position and timing in effective propulsion. He used examples from Olympic swimmers to illustrate these points. The discussion also touched on the balance between breathing every stroke and generating power and speed. Swimming Techniques and Modified Exercises Glenn and Steve discussed teaching swimming techniques, particularly focusing on the butterfly stroke. Steve emphasized the importance of early release and the need for a non-destructive recovery. He also mentioned a book by Howard Furby on swimming, which is hard to find. Glenn shared his experience of teaching college swimmers using simplified techniques like "float diamond angel swing." Melinda suggested a modification for adults, specifically to squeeze the scapula while doing the angel movement to avoid shoulder strain. Butterfly Stroke Techniques and Contrast Drills Glenn discussed various techniques for teaching swimming, focusing on the butterfly stroke. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a natural body position and avoiding tension, particularly in the breathing stroke. Glenn also introduced the concept of contrast drills, which involve exaggerating certain aspects of a stroke to help students correct their technique. He highlighted the difference between a linear pullback and the traditional hourglass pattern, suggesting that a linear pullback could be a beneficial fix for some swimmers. Glenn also stressed the importance of not relying on arm movements to breathe, as this could hinder a swimmer's ability to perform the butterfly stroke effectively. Proper Technique in Butterfly Strokes Glenn discussed the importance of proper technique in swimming, particularly in butterfly strokes. He emphasized the need for a streamlined body position, with the head and chest close to the water's surface, and the hands entering the water with the palms facing down. Glenn also highlighted the significance of the kick, which should be powerful and controlled, with the legs driving the body forward. He shared examples of elite swimmers using unconventional techniques, such as triple kick butterfly, and the use of buoyancy to enhance acceleration. Glenn also stressed the importance of limiting the depth of the hands and the head during the stroke, and the need for a smooth transition between the catch and the pull. The team also discussed the differences in technique between elite swimmers and less experienced swimmers, with a focus on the role of flexibility and the release of the chin during the stroke. Swimming Techniques for Energy Conservation Glenn discussed the importance of conserving energy in swimming, particularly in long races like the 400 IM. He emphasized the need to avoid over-kicking and instead use the body's buoyancy to maintain momentum. Glenn also highlighted the technique of adding a third kick on the exit in the butterfly stroke, which allows for a more efficient race. He encouraged the team to visualize their goals and practice with fins to improve their swimming experience. Swimming Fins and Underwater Streaming Glenn discussed the importance of flexibility in swimming fins, recommending the use of cheap, flexible fins for adults. He also introduced a new tool for live video streaming underwater, which could be used for teaching and practice. The tool, which costs around $500, is cheaper than other solutions on the market. Glenn also shared a video of Dylan Carter, a master swimmer, who achieved a world record time of 23 seconds in the 50-meter butterfly. The team discussed the importance of timing in swimming and agreed to focus on this topic in the next meeting. Dunder Swim Cam

April 22, 2025 - What Should I Learn at Swim Camp?

Northwestern Swim Camps Peak Performance Swim Camps Jesse Moore Recruiting 100% Streamline https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/3646-100-streamline Backstroke Underwater Travel Sequence https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/3650-backstroke-underwater-travel-sequence Breaststroke Underwater Travel Sequence https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/3655-breaststroke-underwater-travel-sequence Butterfly Underwater Travel Sequence https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/3659-butterfly-underwater-travel-sequence Freestyle Underwater Travel Sequence https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/3662-freestyle-underwater-travel-sequence Monday All-Strokes - Simple Streamline Sure, how much more basic can you get. But year after year, day one of swim camp has many swimmers showing poor consistency with their streamlines. Time spend really honing this is will be well worth the time. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1387-all-strokes-simple-streamline Tuesday Balance - Kara Lynn There are many ways to work on balance, and it’s one of the most important aspects of competitive swimming. All camps should be pointing out and instructing to their swimmers how vital bodyline is for our sport. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/656-balance Wednesday David Curtiss Head Position While this focuses on freestyle, camps should take specific time working on the proper head position for all four strokes. We all have to remember, during training with many other swimmers… their eyes may be doing things like looking all around, which will adversely impact head position. The swimmers need to be aware of what they’re doing. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/3426-david-curtiss-head-position Thursday EVF dog paddle Understanding how the arms are supposed to connect with the water is typically very counter-intuitive. Showing and practicing these movements slowly and specifically can open up the swimmers minds to a more correct way of propelling themselves through the water. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/3020-evf-dog-paddle Friday Starts - Pointed Toes Teaching how the WHOLE body is used in our sport can start with the start. While many athletes only focus on the streamline arms, it’s good to take some time to focus on the end… pointing the toes… which is pretty important with all aspects of swimming. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2186-starts-pointed-toes Saturday Conveyor Belt Many problems that are developed in practice are simply because swimmers don’t know how to get out of each other’s way. Teaching the importance of lane etiquette in simple and fun ways can help develop a well organized practice that keeps eyes in the right positions. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2166-conveyor-belt Sunday Using the GoSwim App to Teach What age do you start teaching stroke rate, distance per cycle, breakout point, etc… Why not start YOUNG! Like learning a new language, if the youngest swimmers understand basic swim DATA, in a few years, they’ll be as knowledgeable about what they’re doing as anyone else. We make it clear at camp why understanding our sport is important. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/3577-using-the-goswim-app-to-teach Swimming Techniques and Data Collection Glenn starts the meeting by welcoming participants and addressing technical issues. He introduces Nick Baker as a guest speaker and mentions that they will be discussing swimming techniques, particularly focusing on backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly, and freestyle underwater travel sequences. Glenn also shares that they recently collected data on 3,000 races of 10 to 14-year-olds at the Indiana Age Group championships. The meeting is about to begin formally, with Glenn preparing to mute everyone and start the recording. Peak Performance Camps: Holistic Swimming Approach Glenn introduces Nick, the founder of Peak Performance camps, which have been running for nearly 30 years and have impacted over 20,000 swimmers from 45 countries. Nick explains that he started the camp business due to his passion for teaching and motivating swimmers, focusing on a holistic approach that addresses mental, technical, and physical aspects of swimming. Both Glenn and Nick emphasize the importance of supporting home coaches and giving attention to all swimmers, particularly those who may not typically receive it, as they are the mainstay of the swimming business. Streamlining Underwater Work for Faster Swimming Rick discusses the importance of streamlining and underwater work in swimming. He emphasizes that the purpose of underwater travel is to go faster than surface swimming, not just to avoid swimming. Rick notes that many swimmers, even globally, don't understand this concept and simply try to minimize swimming. Glenn supports this with data, showing that elite swimmers like Caleb Dressel achieve higher velocities underwater than on the surface. Both agree that coaches need to emphasize the importance of underwater work more, with Rick suggesting that swimmers often don't believe or internalize this message. They stress the need for repetition and correction in teaching these skills. Underwater Swimming Techniques for Young Swimmers Rick discusses underwater swimming techniques and dryland training for young swimmers. He emphasizes the importance of pushing out rather than down off the wall and recommends a 100% streamline hold followed by a choice of dolphin kick timing. Rick advocates for a continuous motion between the pull-down and kick-up phases, with no pause. He also stresses the importance of a proper dolphin kick technique and a 5-degree breakout angle to maintain race pace. Rick shares specific drills to improve body whip and core engagement during underwater swimming, aiming for two body whips per second. Peak Swimming Camps Overview Rick discusses the various swimming camps offered by Peak, explaining that they conduct 35 camps annually across the United States and internationally. He mentions different types of camps, including racing camps, stroke and turn camps, IM camps, and training camps. Rick also notes that they have a unique racing strategy concept to teach swimmers how to control their efforts. Glenn suggests the possibility of adult camps, which Rick expresses interest in, provided there is sufficient demand. Breaststroke Pullout and Arm Positioning The group discusses proper technique for breaststroke pullouts and arm positioning during swimming. Rick explains his "X arms" technique, where swimmers keep elbows tucked and make an X shape under the chest. Glenn notes that swimmers often pull their arms too wide instinctively, which can slow them down. The coaches emphasize the importance of teaching proper streamline technique, especially to young swimmers. They also mention a partnership with Go Swim for training videos, which has been well-received by parents and swimmers. Swimming Technique at Swim Camps The discussion focuses on key elements of swimming technique taught at swim camps. Glenn and Aleks emphasize the importance of streamlining, body balance, and head position. They explain that every camp starts with streamline drills to get swimmers thinking about their technique. The importance of body awareness and balance in the water is highlighted, with examples from Olympic swimmer Carolyn Joyce. They also discuss proper head position for efficient swimming, noting that young swimmers often keep their heads too high. The conversation covers the importance of using larger muscle groups like the lats for propulsion, and the need for clean entries when diving. Glenn shares an old video of his own diving technique from the 1980s to illustrate how swimming techniques have evolved over time. Lane Etiquette in Swim Camps Glenn discusses the importance of lane etiquette in swim camps, emphasizing the need for swimmers to understand how to lead a lane and follow tasks without constant instruction. He demonstrates a technique for teaching young swimmers proper lane movement by positioning himself in the pool as a "buoy" for them to swim around. Glenn and Aleks highlight the value of educating both swimmers and parents about the sport, while Barbara praises Glenn's ability to focus on fundamental skills. The discussion concludes with Glenn addressing a question about underwater swimming for masters swimmers and promoting upcoming swim camps.

Apr. 15, 2025 - Adult LTS - Breathing

Adult Learn to Swim: Teaching Breath Control and Rhythmic Breathing Swim teachers and developmental coaches tell us: Two of the most difficult skills to teach beginning swimmers are breath control and rhythmic breathing. Join us this week as we all share our best secrets and progressions for teaching HOW TO BREATHE. Monday Breathing in the Water: Humming in the Water Glenn shares his top secret for helping new swimmers avoid getting water up the nose. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/3227-humming Tuesday Breathing in the Water: Signing in the Water Here’s how Glenn makes swimmers aware of how they exhale – either through the nose or through the mouth. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/3228-singing-in-the-water Wednesday Breathing in the Water: Experiment with Body Density This simple breath-holding exercise teaches so much! https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/3229-experiment-with-body-density Thursday Haufler Free: Freestyle 1- Breath Control and Rhythmic Breathing Steve Haufler shares his progression for teaching breath control and rhythmic breathing. This works for adult beginners, too! https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1775-lesson-1-breath-control-and-rhythmic-breathing Friday Freestyle 101: Head-Lead Kick on Your Back Once someone has mastered breath control and rhythmic breathing, here’s a transitional skill we like to teach before introducing rhythmic breathing. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/1378-head-lead-kick-on-your-back Saturday Haufler Toys: The Head A Styrofoam head will transform how you teach rotary breathing. And will transform your success rate! https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/703-the-head Sunday Breathing in the Water: Turning to Air on Freestyle Look at the house…look at the wall. This simple exercise will help swimmers “get it” when it comes to rotary breathing. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/3233-turning-to-air-on-freestyle Summary Adult Learn to Swim Techniques The main topic of the meeting was adult learn to swim, rhythmic breathing, and breath control. Glenn shared some videos related to this topic and planned to discuss them in detail. He also mentioned that he would be leaning on other people, including Steve and Mike, to fill in the gaps. Teaching Adults to Swim Safely Glenn discusses the challenges of teaching adults to swim, highlighting common fears such as drowning, past negative experiences, and cultural factors. He emphasizes the importance of creating a safe environment and focusing on breathing techniques. Glenn demonstrates underwater breathing exercises, including humming and singing, to help students control their air and overcome fear. He also explains the concept of body density and its impact on buoyancy, noting that individuals with different body compositions may require tailored teaching approaches. Glenn suggests using a vertical float test to determine a person's natural buoyancy, which can inform instruction methods. Body Density and Teaching Techniques Glenn discussed the importance of body density in swimming, emphasizing that it affects comfort and buoyancy in the water. He highlighted the need for personalized teaching methods based on a swimmer's body density, experience, and comfort level. Glenn also demonstrated various techniques for teaching breathing and rhythmic breathing, emphasizing the importance of visual cues and gradual progression. He stressed the significance of empathy and small victories in teaching, and encouraged the use of fun and engaging methods to make learning enjoyable. Body Positioning and Breathing Exercises Glenn discussed the importance of body positioning in group situations to ensure smooth water flow and comfort. He clarified that lung capacity cannot be increased, but the body's ability to handle oxygen levels can be improved through training and lifestyle changes. The group also touched on the topic of breathing exercises and their potential benefits. Swimming Techniques: Balance and Breath Control Glenn discussed the importance of balance and breath control in swimming exercises. He emphasized the need to maintain a fine balance to avoid water entering the nose and to ensure proper oxygen intake. Glenn also highlighted the significance of body alignment and head position in swimming, advising against articulating the neck and instead using the entire torso to make adjustments. He demonstrated these techniques using a swimmer as an example. Precision in Teaching Techniques Glenn discussed the importance of precision and illustration in teaching techniques, using Steve's demonstration of head positioning as an example. He emphasized the value of "see and mimic" learning, where students observe and replicate actions. Glenn also highlighted the use of props like mannequin heads and wigs to help students understand head positioning. He suggested that these techniques could be applied to adults as well. Additionally, Glenn mentioned the use of a pencil and a stick to illustrate the concept of buoyancy and body line. Proper Breathing Techniques in Swimming Glenn discussed the importance of proper breathing techniques in swimming, using examples from his own experiences and those of elite triathletes. He emphasized the need for maintaining a straight body line and keeping the head underwater during freestyle swimming. Glenn also highlighted the significance of rhythmic breathing and the need for a diverse teaching approach, drawing from his own experiences and those of other instructors. Barbara shared a successful teaching experience using a technique she learned from a Steve Hoffler video. Teaching Swimming to Adults The group discusses teaching swimming to adults, emphasizing the importance of empathy and patience. Mike highlights the need to celebrate small victories and make adult learners feel comfortable, especially given their potential fears and insecurities. Suzy mentions that a significant portion of adult lessons involves counseling and psychology. The conversation touches on breathing techniques, body positioning in the water, and the importance of adapting teaching methods to individual needs. Glenn concludes by announcing next week's topic on swim camps and the value they can provide to swimmers.

Inviting Members

How to invite swimmers to your Training Groups.

April 7, 2025 - Adult Learn-to-Swim Month

Adult Learn-to-Swim Month – How to Teach Basic Skills April is Adult Learn-to-Swim month and we’re excited! Teaching someone to swim is one of the most gratifying things you can do as a coach, and it’s guaranteed that you’ll learn more than your students. Join us this week for tips on how to teach skills that are second nature to most swimmers, but are a mysterious new language to the beginner. Monday Early Concepts & Skills: Inhale through Mouth Exhale through Nose Nothing is more basic than getting comfortable with inhaling and exhaling. Get swimmers comfortable with inhaling through the mouth…exhaling through the nose. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2971-inhale-through-mouth-exhale-through-nose Tuesday Early Concepts & Skills: Stand Up from a Front Float Regaining your feet is one of those skills that experienced swimmers take for granted. For new swimmers, it can be a baffling series of complex moves accompanied by a nose-full of water. Here’s how to teach it! https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2968-stand-up-from-a-front-float Wednesday Early Concepts & Skills: Stand Up from a Back Float Regaining your feet from a back float is not an intuitive move for new swimmers! Here’s how to teach them to stand up gracefully, quickly, and without getting water up the nose. “Knees up…stand up.” https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2969-stand-up-from-a-back-float Thursday Early Concepts & Skills: Scull and Tread Learning to scull and tread will help keep new swimmers safer in the water. Here’s how to introduce these skills. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2975-scull-and-tread Friday Early Concepts & Skills: Vertical Kick An effective flutter kick is a foundational skill. To teach it more effectively, have new swimmers put on fins and do vertical kick. They’ll get plenty of air, and you can give instructions and fix problems quickly and in real time. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2974-vertical-kick Saturday Early Concepts & Skills: Streamline Jumps This drill teaching many key skills: rhythmic breathing, core control, streamline, two-footed pushoffs, and the importance of good bodyline. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2973-streamline-jumps Sunday Early Concepts & Skills: Pushout with a Twist Most new swimmers have no clue of how to exit the pool. Help make their exits quick and graceful by pushing out with a twist. https://www.goswim.tv/lessons/2966-pushout-with-a-twist