Quick Dip: Why Does My Coach Ask Me to Slow Down?

A short read for the car journey

Category: Technique  | Read time: Under 2 minutes

Swimming quickly gives you less time to think about each movement. Slowing down can help you notice a detail you miss when you are rushing.

For example, your front crawl hand might cross in front of your head as it enters the water. Swimming at a controlled pace gives you time to practise reaching forwards without crossing over.

Give yourself one clear thing to work on. Trying to change your hands, breathing and kick all at once makes it harder to notice which part is improving.

A drill helps you practise a particular part of your stroke. Some drills change the usual movement so you can concentrate on one skill. That is why completing the drill is only part of the job.

If your set includes a drill length followed by a swimming length, carry the same focus into both. A drill working on hand entry should help you pay attention to that entry when you return to full stroke.

Then check what happens as the speed increases.

During a swim build, gradually swim faster while keeping your chosen detail. If your hand starts crossing over again, notice when it happens. Can you correct it during the length?

That gives you something specific to work on next time.

Ask your coach: Are there any drills I could do better?

Created by Basingstoke Bluefins Coaching Team