Unlocking Your Swimming Potential: 3 Key Strategies
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Chapter 1: A Journey to Better Swimming
Recently, I sought the advice of a friend regarding my stagnant progress in Ironman swim training, and the insights I gained were quite unexpected.
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Swimming is an excellent form of exercise that offers numerous benefits for overall fitness. It serves as a robust cardiovascular workout while also building muscle and strength. Additionally, it is one of the safest activities, with minimal risk of injury compared to high-impact sports like running.
From a young age, I learned to swim, but I didn't emphasize efficiency or technique. While I could manage a fast lap, I would quickly tire if asked to swim longer distances. One of my fitness aspirations is to complete an Ironman 70.3, which includes a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and a 13.1-mile run. I was confident in my running and cycling skills, but my swimming left much to be desired.
Despite practicing diligently, I saw little improvement—even after swimming in the ocean, hoping for a breakthrough. My real progress began when I asked my friend, an experienced long-distance swimmer and Ironman participant, to evaluate my technique. His constructive advice led to gradual improvements in my performance, allowing me to swim longer distances.
Here are some insights I gained during this journey:
Section 1.1: Effort vs. Technique
One of my main challenges was the misconception that increased effort would yield better results. In running, pushing harder can help you go faster, allowing for recovery when needed. However, in swimming, excessive effort often leads to sinking rather than forward movement. Without proper breathing technique, slowing down becomes difficult.
Swimming is inherently technical; fitness alone cannot compensate for poor technique. Although I can run a half marathon or cycle 180 kilometers, I would be exhausted after just 90 meters of swimming! Swimming should be approached similarly to jogging; when fatigued, the pace should decrease.
Start by practicing swimming slowly and effortlessly. If you struggle to maintain a slower pace, your technique needs improvement. Focus solely on mastering the correct swimming form before attempting to exert more energy.
This video, "10 Things That INSTANTLY Make Your Swimming Faster And Smoother," outlines key strategies to enhance swimming efficiency and technique.
Section 1.2: Rethink Your Kicking Strategy
The previous point about effort ties into this next idea: more splashing doesn't mean more speed. In fact, if you were to rely solely on your legs, you would find yourself moving exceedingly slowly. This can be attributed to two factors: likely poor technique and the fact that legs contribute only a minimal portion to swimming speed.
Instead of using your legs to propel yourself, consider them a tool for balance. This adjustment will conserve energy, ultimately improving your speed. By adopting this method, you will swim more gracefully, feel less fatigue in your legs, and experience improved oxygen intake.
Subsection 1.2.1: Mastering One Technique at a Time
With countless tips available for improving swimming, trying to implement them all at once can lead to confusion and hinder progress. If you attempt to correct both kicking and breathing simultaneously, your focus will waver.
Instead, concentrate on one element at a time. Once you have mastered a particular skill and it becomes second nature, you can shift your attention to the next. Prioritize correcting the most detrimental mistakes first—begin with perfecting your breathing technique before advancing to catching, pulling, rotation, and kicking.
Chapter 2: Embracing Progress and Patience
To truly enhance your swimming ability, adopt a step-by-step approach. Focus on correcting the most critical errors first, and consider enlisting the help of a qualified instructor.
Progress will require time, consistency, and patience.
This second video, "6 Tips Towards A Better Swimming Technique | Why Do I Suck At Swimming?" provides practical advice for improving your swimming experience.
In conclusion, take your time and focus on the vital techniques that need attention. If you're interested in more articles on this topic, consider signing up for a Medium membership for just $5 a month, allowing you to support my work while accessing a wealth of content.