Have you ever noticed how the faster boats are the longer boats (think a rowing team’s racing shell versus a fisherman’s rowboat)? The same physics that apply to building a fast racing boat apply to the human body moving through the water.  The catch-up drill will help you focus on maintaining a long body in the water. To do the drill, maintain your non-stroking arm … [Read more...]

Instead of swimming with paddles, the fists drill is more like swimming with anti-paddles.  Just as the name implies, close up your hands into fists and swim. If you feel like you aren’t getting very far, remember to keep your elbow high during the pull phase of the stroke.  Let your arm seek out the optimal position that grips the water and provides the most … [Read more...]

The last third of the freestyle stroke generates the most power and propulsion.  Therefore, a good follow-through is crucial to a powerful stroke.  This drill helps reinforce full extension of your arm at the end of the stroke. Simply brush your thumb against the side of your thigh as you finish; this will give you a target for where your hand should be … [Read more...]