Using the GoSwim App, we calculate how long a swimmer is out of the centered head, balanced position during a breathing stroke.

The calculation is taken using the "clock" tool in the annotation features of the app. In a breathing stroke, find when the hand to the opposite side of the breath touches the water, and add a "clock" to it. This will be used to calculate the entire stroke cycle.

Next, look for the first movement of the head as it prepares for the breath. Add a second "clock" to the screen, this will be used to get the amount of time the swimmer's head is out of the centered position.

Once the swimmer's head is back to the centered position, enter that number into a calculator.

Now wait for the opposite hand to touch the water's surface again. This will be a complete stroke cycle for the swimmer. Divide the first number (breath time) by the stroke cycle time and you'll get a decimal. The first 2 numbers of the decimal is the % of time the swimmer is out of a head-centered position for freestyle.

Our goal for most swimmers will be to minimize that time, while still getting a complete breath.


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May 29, 2023 - Calculating Breath Timing in Freestyle