Great explanation. Been encorporating increased stroke rate and rhthyn with excellent results. I used to be a 2 beat triathalon kicker and taking some lessons from a coach telling me to increase my kick rate. I haven't been comfortable with the transition. I find it exhausting and not efficent.. I'll be glad to get back to the 2 beat. Thanks for the help. I'm 72 yrs old and still improving.
I guess for breathing cycles, I say breathe when you need to. For me, that is every other arm stroke. I run into oxygen debt otherwise. I always anchor my down/front side kick on my pulling arm, so as the right arm just enters the 'power' point of the pull at about 45 degrees, the leg on the right side kicks down. This is exactly what you do when swimming catch up style.
Thanks Paul, great review, different from the usual approach to the long distance events technique. This year the Champions, both female and male, 800/1500, show an increasing in the stroke rate and obviously a reduction in the front glide and probably in the rolling, even maintaining the EVF, even if this particular is not, to me, a must, but it is direct correlated to the force/power the swimmer could put in the final part of the pull. Even the kicks crossed as you told are not absolutely a problem, if this let the swimmer to put in the water his best swim timing. And what about the stroke rate? This year it seems that Florian and Mikailo, the lowest stroke rate swimmers, aren't in the front pack, so we could desume that the "glide/hip stroke/low stroke rate" swim technique it is not, at least, the only one, for endurance swimmer. Definitely the sum of the factors must give a great speed, but not all the factors must show a value of 10 on 10.
Great stuff Paul! Thanks for the valuable content. I have been focusing on strong pull through these past years. It definitely takes a lot of effort to keep the stroke rate high and not settle into an overglider type of swim. This analysis is a good source of inspiration for my next visit to the pool. ;)
Remember - higher rate doesn’t mean higher effort - think of it like gears on a bike - easier gear = less force per stroke but at a slightly higher frequency - coupled with less effort with the legs is why this proves to be very economical for many people. I see Quadarella just won the 800 as well giving her the 800 & 1500 double with this style. Not for everyone of course (per all my guidance on these points over the years) but equally the longer, smoother style is not for everyone either (as classically taught). Find YOUR rhythm 👍
Great commentary and analysis, especially about being open to change. Thanks, Paul. Katie Ledecky said, "I think we have the approach that every race is a sprint. Some races are just longer sprints than others." When you are considering the fastest swimmers in the world, true that, but for mere mortals, we can't sustain a 1500 m sprint! I need to give up some sprint speed for efficiency because I am not in world-class shape, not to mention world-class youth. A two beat kick allows more cardio effort in a stronger pull, where it will be more effective. But such a high turnover is unsustainable, since we are not swimming sub-minute per 100. Would you advise non-olympians the same or differently?
Good to hear from your Jeff. Hope all is well in Carlsbad! Not sure if you’ve seen the longer, more detailed video that this one links to at the end, but there’s some deeper discussion in that one about the physiology of defining the right stroke rate for you through our Stroke Rate ramp test. Highly recommend taking a look ua-cam.com/video/qbCUKad-PZA/v-deo.htmlsi=HRvoMcmCwAzDo93-
@@swimsmooth This link directs to some Adobe video, but I listened to your latest video about the Triathlon athlete's session and it definitely sounds clearer. Without microphone the lower range tones do not register and audio sounds monotone and I personally find difficult to follow especially when there are some sound effects. I am not a native speaker so this definitely does not make it easier for me. Also i might have damaged my ears with music and doing children classes. Better audio better quality newer hurts :) Thanks for your insights and cheers from Estonia!
Is there a recommended stroke rate limit where a 2 beat stops working? I am a tall swimmer (6'4 with a very wide wingspan). I always thought that my stroke rate would not allow for a 2 beat kick. After watching this video I gave it a try. I probably need to hone it in, but I am experiencing so clear speed and efficiency gain. I would love to hear thoughts opinions if anyone see this comment. My stroke rate is around 60 per min.
Hi Pierre. I would start by doing our Stroke Rate Ramp Test as detailed here: ua-cam.com/video/2Gu_0J5cbL4/v-deo.htmlsi=nq-NIsf9Lq3s6ayF - if you wanted to get really funky, you could perform it twice - once with a 2BK and once with your normal kick. I would say 60+ would be your minimal so it might well be that you’ve already found it 👍
Thanks Ermie - it’s a tough one to get right for sure - a little like patting your head and rubbing your belly at the same time I’d say. As per my previous vids too, it’s not always for everyone and that’s equally ok 👍
Really interesting analysis. Shame the u/water analysis of “Wiffen’s” 2-beat kick is actually not Wiffen😉. You can tell as it’s clearly not lane 5 - it’s lane 3!!
Thanks for pointing out the error of my ways @jonendeacott6040 - you are quite correct - please accept my apologies and see my "addendum" here: ua-cam.com/video/MJw1WMDIrqw/v-deo.html - if anything, the fact that Schwarz and Wiffen display almost the same kicking action, actually further endorses Wiffen's point at 04:08 into the original video.
My daughter is 12 and her freestyle stroke is slow compare to other swimmers. But she can swim for almost two hours. Yes, she tried 1500 when she was 10. I am trying to find a place in New York City to train my daughter as a distant swimmer. I could not find one. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks
If she's not showing talent by 12 she's likely not going to 'make it'. Don't be the swimmer parent pushing too hard for something that will never materialise but can ruin a relationship - seen it many times.
@@ln5747She is a natural born distant swimmer. She can’t swim fast but she can swim for hours. I am not training her for Olympic. Just trying to refine her talent.
QUADARELLA SWIM LIKE LAURE MANAUDOU !don t forget we don t have mellouli and sam short,and bobby fink they ll be there for the olympics.salim from paris
Well, for Quadarella: 1) exhale, 2) don’t discount bilateral breathing, 3) consider if a higher tempo and 2-beat kick is for you (see previous vids we’ve recently published on this), 4) pacing is key. For Wiffen: echoes point 3 and 4 above. Ultimately - as we just saw in the Quadarella vs Fairweather showdown in the heats of the 800 freestyle, there are clearly two styles you’ll see at this level - Swinger and Smooth - neither is necessarily right or wrong, just what is right for the individual swimmer 👍
I never watch anything from that region of the world, which included the Qatari World Cup Football, the UAE Tour (Cycling) etc. Also didn’t watch the Giro D’Italia when it started in Israel. Obviously the rulers of those countries have lots of money and attract bodies like FINA to help them sport-wash, but it’s still dissapointing. Wish they’d stop it.
Its like a higher gear. More force per stroke, for fewer strokes. Whats stands out in Wiffens stroke is his total body control combined with a slick smoothness. Every part of his body senses the optimal position and timung for his body that works best for him. His main body is very stable gliding through the water, and you can see how flexible and optimal he moves his limbs from this platform.
Reminds me of the endless discussions we all had on the swimsmooh an total immersion forums more then 10 years ago. It was fun though. Greetings Zenturtle.
Great explanation. Been encorporating increased stroke rate and rhthyn with excellent results. I used to be a 2 beat triathalon kicker and taking some lessons from a coach telling me to increase my kick rate. I haven't been comfortable with the transition. I find it exhausting and not efficent.. I'll be glad to get back to the 2 beat. Thanks for the help. I'm 72 yrs old and still improving.
Really glad it’s helped Alan. Keep up the great work!
A two beat kick appears to yield efficient use of energy when swim cadence is high. Very useful lesson for long distance events.
Yes, you are right
Well done daniel proud of you
Total legend!
Fascinating analysis n great vid ☘️
Thanks Neil - appreciate that!
I guess for breathing cycles, I say breathe when you need to. For me, that is every other arm stroke. I run into oxygen debt otherwise. I always anchor my down/front side kick on my pulling arm, so as the right arm just enters the 'power' point of the pull at about 45 degrees, the leg on the right side kicks down. This is exactly what you do when swimming catch up style.
Thanks Paul, great review, different from the usual approach to the long distance events technique. This year the Champions, both female and male, 800/1500, show an increasing in the stroke rate and obviously a reduction in the front glide and probably in the rolling, even maintaining the EVF, even if this particular is not, to me, a must, but it is direct correlated to the force/power the swimmer could put in the final part of the pull. Even the kicks crossed as you told are not absolutely a problem, if this let the swimmer to put in the water his best swim timing. And what about the stroke rate? This year it seems that Florian and Mikailo, the lowest stroke rate swimmers, aren't in the front pack, so we could desume that the "glide/hip stroke/low stroke rate" swim technique it is not, at least, the only one, for endurance swimmer. Definitely the sum of the factors must give a great speed, but not all the factors must show a value of 10 on 10.
I think your deductions are very sound Carlo - thanks for the input and observations!
Always helpful . I wish I could meet you as I have so much about terrible/ novice swimming that I could share ❤❤❤❤❤❤
Not sure where you're based Alison, but we will be in Europe at the BestFest in May...
Great stuff Paul! Thanks for the valuable content. I have been focusing on strong pull through these past years. It definitely takes a lot of effort to keep the stroke rate high and not settle into an overglider type of swim. This analysis is a good source of inspiration for my next visit to the pool. ;)
Remember - higher rate doesn’t mean higher effort - think of it like gears on a bike - easier gear = less force per stroke but at a slightly higher frequency - coupled with less effort with the legs is why this proves to be very economical for many people. I see Quadarella just won the 800 as well giving her the 800 & 1500 double with this style. Not for everyone of course (per all my guidance on these points over the years) but equally the longer, smoother style is not for everyone either (as classically taught). Find YOUR rhythm 👍
Many thanks great analysis - lot to think about.
Yes, perhaps, but focus on those 4 take-home points from Quadarella's stroke and then sit back and admire Daniel's 1500 performance now too!
Great commentary and analysis, especially about being open to change. Thanks, Paul.
Katie Ledecky said, "I think we have the approach that every race is a sprint. Some races are just longer sprints than others." When you are considering the fastest swimmers in the world, true that, but for mere mortals, we can't sustain a 1500 m sprint! I need to give up some sprint speed for efficiency because I am not in world-class shape, not to mention world-class youth. A two beat kick allows more cardio effort in a stronger pull, where it will be more effective. But such a high turnover is unsustainable, since we are not swimming sub-minute per 100. Would you advise non-olympians the same or differently?
Good to hear from your Jeff. Hope all is well in Carlsbad! Not sure if you’ve seen the longer, more detailed video that this one links to at the end, but there’s some deeper discussion in that one about the physiology of defining the right stroke rate for you through our Stroke Rate ramp test. Highly recommend taking a look ua-cam.com/video/qbCUKad-PZA/v-deo.htmlsi=HRvoMcmCwAzDo93-
Great insights and expressions. I would love to see you use a microphone that would make audio clearer and easier for listeners.
Subscribed
Second part of the video has great audio
Can you let me know if this is better: ua-cam.com/video/Mps4QKVs7fo/v-deo.html
@@swimsmooth This link directs to some Adobe video, but I listened to your latest video about the Triathlon athlete's session and it definitely sounds clearer.
Without microphone the lower range tones do not register and audio sounds monotone and I personally find difficult to follow especially when there are some sound effects.
I am not a native speaker so this definitely does not make it easier for me. Also i might have damaged my ears with music and doing children classes.
Better audio better quality newer hurts :) Thanks for your insights and cheers from Estonia!
Appreciate the help! @@Daan113
Enjoyed that 🙏
Appreciate your support 🙏
Great video Paul!
Many thanks Pete 👍
Is there a recommended stroke rate limit where a 2 beat stops working? I am a tall swimmer (6'4 with a very wide wingspan). I always thought that my stroke rate would not allow for a 2 beat kick. After watching this video I gave it a try. I probably need to hone it in, but I am experiencing so clear speed and efficiency gain. I would love to hear thoughts opinions if anyone see this comment. My stroke rate is around 60 per min.
Hi Pierre. I would start by doing our Stroke Rate Ramp Test as detailed here: ua-cam.com/video/2Gu_0J5cbL4/v-deo.htmlsi=nq-NIsf9Lq3s6ayF - if you wanted to get really funky, you could perform it twice - once with a 2BK and once with your normal kick. I would say 60+ would be your minimal so it might well be that you’ve already found it 👍
thanks so much Paul, I will give it a try!
no problem!@@fayollepierre
Great review Paul - wish I could work out a 2 beat kick but it’s probably a bit late!!🤭🤭🤭
Thanks Ermie - it’s a tough one to get right for sure - a little like patting your head and rubbing your belly at the same time I’d say. As per my previous vids too, it’s not always for everyone and that’s equally ok 👍
It's never too late to learn a different technique but it is probably too late to make it to the Olympics.😉
Really interesting analysis. Shame the u/water analysis of “Wiffen’s” 2-beat kick is actually not Wiffen😉. You can tell as it’s clearly not lane 5 - it’s lane 3!!
Thanks for pointing out the error of my ways @jonendeacott6040 - you are quite correct - please accept my apologies and see my "addendum" here: ua-cam.com/video/MJw1WMDIrqw/v-deo.html - if anything, the fact that Schwarz and Wiffen display almost the same kicking action, actually further endorses Wiffen's point at 04:08 into the original video.
My daughter is 12 and her freestyle stroke is slow compare to other swimmers. But she can swim for almost two hours. Yes, she tried 1500 when she was 10. I am trying to find a place in New York City to train my daughter as a distant swimmer. I could not find one. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks
If she's not showing talent by 12 she's likely not going to 'make it'. Don't be the swimmer parent pushing too hard for something that will never materialise but can ruin a relationship - seen it many times.
@@ln5747 make it for what?
@@ndchieh as a distance swimmer.
@@ln5747She is a natural born distant swimmer. She can’t swim fast but she can swim for hours. I am not training her for Olympic. Just trying to refine her talent.
@@ndchieh I understand. No harm in maximising one's abilities even if it's not for sporting success.
QUADARELLA SWIM LIKE LAURE MANAUDOU !don t forget we don t have mellouli and sam short,and bobby fink they ll be there for the olympics.salim from paris
Very true!
lots of analysis but what are you trying to say? What are we supposed to get from this?
Well, for Quadarella: 1) exhale, 2) don’t discount bilateral breathing, 3) consider if a higher tempo and 2-beat kick is for you (see previous vids we’ve recently published on this), 4) pacing is key. For Wiffen: echoes point 3 and 4 above. Ultimately - as we just saw in the Quadarella vs Fairweather showdown in the heats of the 800 freestyle, there are clearly two styles you’ll see at this level - Swinger and Smooth - neither is necessarily right or wrong, just what is right for the individual swimmer 👍
@@swimsmooth thank you for breaking this down, I enjoy your videos, thank you again.
@@rodparker6130 thanks Rod
I never watch anything from that region of the world, which included the Qatari World Cup Football, the UAE Tour (Cycling) etc. Also didn’t watch the Giro D’Italia when it started in Israel. Obviously the rulers of those countries have lots of money and attract bodies like FINA to help them sport-wash, but it’s still dissapointing. Wish they’d stop it.
Sorry it wasn’t for you
If you were to worry about problems in various countries you will never get to watch any sport!
If the Olympics were in Russia I would still watch it!
It takes more energy to swim more efficiently?🤔 Now that is an oxymoron.
Erm, yep...
Its like a higher gear. More force per stroke, for fewer strokes. Whats stands out in Wiffens stroke is his total body control combined with a slick smoothness. Every part of his body senses the optimal position and timung for his body that works best for him.
His main body is very stable gliding through the water, and you can see how flexible and optimal he moves his limbs from this platform.
Great points@@jeroenpotma4191 - I really felt that from the inspiration in my 10x400 set the following morning!
Reminds me of the endless discussions we all had on the swimsmooh an total immersion forums more then 10 years ago. It was fun though. Greetings Zenturtle.
As they say, @@jeroenpotma4191 , "don't mention the war!" LOL!