**Counting Strokes and Technique Adjustments**

 

Glenn introduces the concept of counting strokes as a fundamental technique for all swimmers, regardless of their level.

He explains how to count strokes in breaststroke and freestyle, focusing on the distance per cycle and the importance of consistent push-off distances.

Glenn demonstrates how to reduce stroke count by improving body position and reducing friction and resistance.

He discusses the challenges of changing distance per cycle in butterfly and backstroke compared to freestyle and breaststroke.

 

**Short Release Butterfly and Backstroke Techniques**

 

Glenn introduces the concept of short release butterfly, where the hands are released early to the side, making the stroke feel easier and less tiring.

He explains the benefits of short release butterfly, including reduced shoulder tension and improved power transfer.

Glenn discusses the importance of nose clips in backstroke to prevent water from entering the nose and improving head stability.

He shares a personal anecdote about using nose clips to improve his own swimming and the positive impact it had on his performance.

 

**Head Stability and Nose Clips in Backstroke**

 

Glenn emphasizes the importance of head stability in backstroke, noting that many swimmers struggle with keeping their head back to avoid water entering their nose.

He explains how nose clips can help swimmers maintain head stability and improve their overall performance in backstroke.

Glenn shares a test method used at camps to determine if swimmers can hold air in their nose, which indicates their need for nose clips.

He discusses the impact of nose clips on underwater dolphin kicks and the importance of maintaining a stable head position.

 

**Breaststroke Technique and Thumb Lock**

 

Glenn highlights the importance of maintaining a straight arm position in breaststroke, especially during the extension phase.

He introduces the thumb lock technique to help swimmers achieve a straight arm position by using the leverage of the thumb to squeeze the elbows in.

Glenn explains the process of teaching swimmers the thumb lock technique and gradually transitioning them to the straight arm position without the thumb lock.

He emphasizes the importance of minimizing resistance out front to improve overall efficiency in breaststroke.

 

**Freestyle Technique and Balance**

 

Glenn discusses the importance of balance and timing in freestyle, using Matt Target's high-speed sprint stroke as an example.

He explains how to teach young swimmers to harness the whole machine by focusing on the timing and balance of the stroke.

Glenn emphasizes the importance of breathing while extended and the role of the lats in driving the stroke.

He shares insights from top swimmers like Caeleb Dressel, who have multiple strokes for different distances and speeds.

 

**Repetition and Practice in Swimming**

 

Glenn stresses the power of repetition in swimming, noting that swimmers have countless opportunities to practice their technique in practice.

He explains the importance of practicing the entire turn, including the push-off and the entry into the water, to ensure a clean and efficient start.

Glenn shares tips for teaching swimmers to enter the water with a clean body line, emphasizing the importance of a circular entry.

He discusses the benefits of practicing the entire turn in practice to improve performance in races.

 

**Starting Blocks and Entry Techniques**

 

Glenn introduces the concept of starting blocks and the importance of a powerful dynamic jump to begin the race.

He explains the process of teaching swimmers to fall into the water with a small splash, emphasizing the importance of a clean entry.

Glenn shares a favorite shot of a swimmer entering the water with a perfect circular entry, highlighting the importance of a clean body line.

He discusses the benefits of practicing the entire start in practice to ensure a clean and efficient entry in races.

 

**Open Turns and USA Swimming Rules**

 

Glenn discusses the importance of practicing open turns in practice to ensure a clean and efficient turn in races.

He explains the USA Swimming rules regarding the backstroke turn, noting that swimmers must roll at least to the side before starting to swim.

Glenn shares an anecdote about a swimmer who was DQ'd for having a 45-degree angle at the backstroke turn, highlighting the inconsistency in officiating.

He emphasizes the importance of understanding and following the USA Swimming rules to avoid disqualifications.


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Sept. 8, 2026 - Season Start - The One Thing