Swimmer’s Progress It’s very easy to get caught up in the minutiae of swimming. Dominic likes to say it’s a sport of centimeters, and I 100% agree with him. For example, the difference between proper and improper head position in freestyle is measured in inches. And you’ll be working on perfecting and maintaining this, probably […]
3 Myths About Triathlon Swimming
Posted Articles, TrainingLike any sport, there are many training myths on how to best train and improve. Just to name a few that I have seen this past week on some popular online blogs and forums… To make it to Kona, you need to train 18-25 hours a week. You should eat one gel every 15 min […]
I’m rebooted! #SwimReboot Lessons Learned
Posted Articles, Training, Vasa Swim(Continued from #SwimReboot 9: KISSing in the New Year) Almost 16 weeks ago, the Tri Swim Coach team and I launched project #swimreboot. The main purpose of the project was to provide you tips on how time-strapped athletes can improve your swim without spending hours and hours in the pool. We wanted to show you […]
Focus on Drills for Progress
Posted Articles, UncategorizedLissa Henderson here. During my swim practices growing up, there was nothing that I dreaded more than a giant set full of freestyle drills. Well, except maybe an entire workout made up of butterfly sets. Those were the worst. 4000-6000 yards made up of 80% butterfly? No thank you. Those dreaded drill sets just bored me […]
The Psychology of Triathlon and Swimming With Lesley Paterson- TSC Podcast #121
Posted Podcasts Download this episode In this episode of the Tri Swim Coach Podcast, Kevin is joined by Chris Hague and Lesley Patterson. They discuss the psychology of the sport and what one needs to do to overcome boundaries and fears. Topics discussed in this episode: How Lesley came up with her book Having the confidence […]
What to do when you fatigue…
Posted ArticlesThis morning was the first time I was able to get to the pool in two weeks. Before this, I had a good swim streak going. Then the pool shut down for repairs and left me stuck on dryland. Fortunately, I was able to swim on the Vasa SwimErg. So I was able to keep […]
The Bitcoins of the Tri World: 5 smart investments that you should make now
Posted Articles, TrainingIn the banking and finance world, everyone is (or should be) obsessed with “return on investment” (ROI). This looks at how much money do you get back for the money you put in. As investors, we want the biggest return for the smallest amount put down. If we get $50 back in 12 months by […]
Project #SwimReboot Week 9: KISSing in the New Year
Posted Articles, Training, Vasa Swim(continued from Week 8, on Youtube) Happy New Year everyone! Since the beginning of the new year is a good time to review, I decided to look over the blogs and my workouts of this project. I have come a long way since I began this project with so much more to come. My pace […]
Project #SwimReboot Week 7: 5 Core Exercises to Help Your Swim
Posted UncategorizedContinued from Part 6: When your motivation begins to wane The list of the exercises are: Beginner: 40″ on/20″ recovery between Intermediate: 50″ on/10″ off Advanced: Rotate through and hold each for 1 min without breaks between 1) Front Plank 2) Left Side plank 3) Right side plank 4) Bridge 5) Bicycle crunches After […]
Project #SwimReboot Week 6: When your motivation begins to wane
Posted Articles, Training, Vasa SwimContinued from Part 5: Fitting everything in First, a disclaimer: this week was supposed to be about strength training and how to incorporate weight lifting and specific core exercises to boost your swim performance. But we had some technical difficulties at headquarters (i.e. I deleted the video). So I will post that update at the end […]
Project #SwimReboot Week 5: Fitting everything in
Posted Articles, Training, Vasa SwimContinued from Part 4: Retesting One of the biggest issues (and I am sure you can all relate) I have faced in project #swimreboot is not the workouts themselves (although they have been challenging in a good way). It is trying to fit everything in. Over the past four weeks, I have found some good […]
Project #SwimReboot Week 4: Retesting
Posted Articles, Vasa Swim(Continued from Part 3: Take a Chill Pill) With three weeks successfully completed, Coach Eric Neilson and I wanted to see how much I had improved. Three weeks of consistent training is enough time to see gains and make adjustments, especially for beginners or those coming back from hiatus. In particular, if you are feeling […]
Project #SwimReboot Week 3: Take a chill pill to get faster
Posted Articles, Training, Vasa Swim(Continued from Part 2 of the #SwimReboot series) This past week in project #swimreboot was a tough one. It was tough not because of the training was heavier or higher volume. But because of all of the other stress in life that come up in addition to training. I am sure everyone at some point […]
#SwimReboot Step 2: Turning on the lights
Posted Articles, Training, Vasa SwimWhatever your endeavor, your first 5k, a marathon PR, racing an Ironman, or in my case, rebooting my swim, it is critical to know where you are currently. You cannot move forward unless you accept the reality of where you are and where you need to focus. Especially in a form specific sport like swimming, […]
Week one of #SwimReboot: Busting off the Rust
Posted Articles, Training, Vasa Swim(from Coach Chris Hague) This is from the #SwimReboot series starting with Part One here. Have you ever taken a long break from running or biking or swimming or even training activity completely, and then come back to it? Those first workouts are definitely rude awakenings. You just feel rusty and crusty. Before, the workout […]
Welcome To Project #SwimReboot
Posted Articles, Training, Vasa Swim(From Coach Chris) Back in February, I fell out of love with swimming. I had no interest in getting in the pool, getting on the Vasa, or doing anything in the water–not even getting in the hot tub. I am not sure what triggered my disenchantment because I was coming off a series of breakthrough […]
A few thoughts on Kona
Posted ArticlesAs many of you know, Saturday is Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii. To some, it is the triathlon highlight of the year. To our TSC members who are racing, congratulations! Enjoy the experience. Savor not only the journey that got you there, but the fact that you are out there on a magical course […]
Three things that can RUIN your workouts
Posted Articles, TrainingIf you are a time-crunched athlete, and many of you are, every minute of your training and each workout counts. But you might be sabotaging that valuable time without knowing it. Doing these three things has the potential to wreck your workouts when you could be optimizing them. Keeping your cell phone notifications on. Unless […]
Beware this common beginner triathlete trap
Posted Articles, TrainingWhen I first started triathlon training, I read all the latest articles, books, and social media posts for advice. Whenever I came across a good article or post with a specific workout or lifting routine guaranteed to make me faster, I would clip it out and put it in a giant folder organized by sport. […]
Staying a beginner triathlete to make you faster
Posted Articles, Newsletters, TrainingIn a previous blog post, I gave you some quality tips on how you can graduate from being a beginner triathlete to an intermediate or advanced triathlete. If you have not read it yet, check it out. If you feel stuck, you will find ways to change your training to take your game to the […]
Swimming up stream in a pool
Posted Articles, TrainingOver the weekend, the world’s best competed in Chattanooga at the 70.3 world championships. From all reports, the course was definitely championship quality with a partially against current swim, plenty of climbing, and an undulating run. Athletes had their training cut out for them. The up river swim in particular got me thinking about how […]
How to Graduate from being a Beginner Triathlete
Posted TrainingSo you made it through your first or second full season in triathlon. You may have a one or two races underneath your fuel belt, and may have scheduled your races for 2018. But are you ready to take your triathlon training to the next level and graduate from being a “newbie”? Going from a […]
The Benefits of Hypoxic Training
Posted ArticlesHypoxic training, or specific sets where you control how much or little you breathe, has received a bad reputation over the past years especially in the triathlon community. But it potentially has the power to unleash massive swim gains and transform your form. Breathing is one of the most common form issues that we at […]
Mastering the triathlon taper
Posted ArticlesAfter a quick glance at our social media and private Facebook pages, we have noticed a significant uptick of “taper” related posts. It seems that many of our TSC athletes are in “taper mode.” “It’s race week! Time to put the feet up #tapertime”. “Only 2000m in the pool. It must be time to #taper”. […]
Balance and Inspiration – TSC Podcast #120
Posted PodcastsDownload this episode In this episode of the TriSwim Coach Podcast, Kevin digs deep about what balance really is. Inspiration is also tackled in this episode with an amazing story that could help you move forward in life! Topics discussed in this episode: Acid Reflux and how coffee plays a role in it Idea of […]
Sink or Swim in Your Next Triathlon
Posted Articles, TrainingTriathletes like to say that they swim, bike, and run during a race. But actually, they “swimbikerun”. What makes multisports unique is that the success of one leg depends on the previous stage. This is why swimming is so critical. Without a good swim leg the rest of the race can easily go wrong. […]
How to plan your triathlon swim strategy
Posted ArticlesCoach Kevin on 6 steps to plan your triathlon swim strategy in a race:
Fall in love with swimming to get faster
Posted Articles, NewslettersTriathlon coaches hear this all the time: “I just want to survive the swim” “Once I get on the bike, I will be fine” “I suck at swimming” “I have a love-hate relationship with the water. I love it because it makes me a triathlete; but I hate it because it’s swimming” “Thank goodness the […]
Training with a tempo trainer is ruining your stroke
Posted Articles, TrainingMany websites, swim coaches and programs recommend that beginner swimmers train with a tempo trainer (i.e. a “wetranome”) to help them find the ideal stroke rate. This little device goes underneath your swim cap and beeps every time you “should” take a stroke. In theory, this is supposed to help swimmers get their stroke rate/cadence […]
The Breathing Solution To Swimming With Coach Dominic Latella – TSC Podcast #119
Posted PodcastsDownload this episode In this episode of the TriSwim Coach Podcast, Kevin interviews top US swim coach and breathing expert Dominic Latella for the second time (see episode 111 for Dominic’s first appearance on Tri Swim Coach). Dominic has now discovered a new way of breathing that has been really effective with his swimming students, allowing […]
The 5 Triathlon Rules For Swimming You Need To Know
Posted UncategorizedTriathlon rules for a race can be confusing and nerve wracking. Many triathletes go into a race without learning what the rules are, and end up creating more stress for themselves than is needed, in an already stressful situation! Coach Chris goes over the 5 triathlon swim rules you need to know to avoid things […]
Are you really ready for an Ironman?
Posted Articles, NewslettersScanning my news feed this past week, I came across this article on TrainingPeaks. It gave three indicators that you are ready for a full distance Ironman. To summarize: Lifestyle – In essence, asking whether your family, work, and social commitments can support 15-25 hours a week of training, early bedtimes and adjusting to the […]
How To Fix Sinking Legs In Freestyle
Posted ArticlesI have been seeing a lot of posts on the Tri Swim Coach Facebook page about people trying to get more efficient and get their legs up. A few of the videos and images these individuals share demonstrate the swimmer has lordosis or excessive curvature of the spine. Lordosis is a posture in which the […]
3 Ways to Fasttrack Your Swimming Progress – Beginner’s edition
Posted Articles, NewslettersI have some news to you new swimmers: There are no shortcuts in swimming and training. You put in the work and the quality and volume of that work dictates your results. You put in junk you are going to get junk results. But if you put in quality and consistent work you are going […]
What to do after you hit the panic button…
Posted Articles, NewslettersThe sound of the gun fades into the early morning mist. The water is cold and murky as you swim, and the bottom of the lake disappears into the gloom. Clouds of muck swirl below you. Then a dark blur stirs bellow you. Was it a shark or just a fish or something else? Other […]
4 “Shortcuts” to a faster Triathlon swim
Posted Articles, NewslettersHave you found that despite a winter of solid progress in the pool, when you get into the open water, you fall short? Are you looking for that secret workout or tip that will take your open water swims to the next level? We have three of them are guaranteed to take your open water […]
Swim sighting for open water triathlons
Posted ArticlesIn this video, Coach Dominic takes you through the drills you will need to practice to improve your swim sighting for open water triathlons. This is a crucial part of the swim that can’t be overlooked! Make sure to practice in the pool, and then in the open water.
Transformation Through Triathlon With Michelle Dinsdale – TSC Podcast #118
Posted PodcastsDownload this episode In this episode of the TriSwim Coach Podcast, Kevin interviews age group triathlete Michelle Dinsdale. Currently as a health coach, she now helps people from all walks of life transform their bodies and improve their energy so that they can get more done in less time. Topics discussed in this episode: Her background and what […]
Two Truths and a Lie about Swimming
Posted Articles, NewslettersIf you ever did a team bonding activity back in school or some corporate environments, you might have played the corny game “two truths and a lie”. Participants would gather round and each would say two truths about themselves (e.g. I coach for Tri Swim coach and I like swimming on a Vasa more than […]
3 Things All Good Swim Programs Do
Posted Articles, NewslettersIt is hard to boil down swimming success to three points especially since everyone has unique weaknesses. Some people need to focus on balancing in the water, while others need to focus on a high elbow catch, and others need to focus more on intensity and speed. However, there are three things that all successful […]
The coaching world has a HUGE PROBLEM
Posted Articles, NewslettersThe coaching world has a HUGE PROBLEM. It happens in swimming, triathlon, running, cycling, weight training, fitness….. almost every sport. It ruins athletes, breaks down their motivation, and destroys seasons. The problem is that coaches design programs around them not you, the athlete. Even if you are self coached, you are not immune. Many coaches design […]
Swim Slow To Go Fast
Posted ArticlesBy Dominic Latella The Swim Box It’s always much easier to swim fast, it’s just not maintainable for more than 25 or 50 yards. Learning to swim slowly is what’s really hard, and it’s what most, if not all, swimmers need to do in order to learn to control what they’re doing. Swimming fast provides […]
Triathlon As Art – TSC Podcast #117
Posted PodcastsDownload this episode In this episode, Kevin reads an email he made back in December where he share about triathlon as a form of art. Delve deeper into this philosophy and how this could affect you as an athlete by listening to the valuable lessons from this episode. Topics discussed in this episode: The content […]
The biggest obstacle to your swimming
Posted Articles, NewslettersI have been coaching with TSC for almost 8 years and the biggest issue that I see with swimmers has nothing to do with the water….. No it’s not sinking hips….. Not even high elbow catch Nor “efficiency”…… Can you guess it? It’s how swimmers talk to themselves. That is the biggest barrier swimmers face […]
The ‘Play vs Structure’ Show – TSC Podcast #116
Posted PodcastsDownload this episode With your swim training, do you add a little of play or is it all about structure? Kevin and Chris discuss their take on this idea of free play, and how it can help your training in many ways. Don’t miss it! Topics discussed in this episode: Chris studies on Sport Psychology […]
Bulletproof Your Shoulders: Part 2
Posted Articles, NewslettersNow that you read part 1 and the prologue to TSC swimmers guide to bulletproofing your shoulders here is part two of the workout program. Why so many parts? The reason I broke this up into 3 installments (the last one is coming next week) is because as your season changes your strength routine should change […]
Bulletproof Your Shoulders: Part 1
Posted Articles, NewslettersDid you read last week’s blog? If you have not, pause, click here, and read my rant before reading any further; the rest of this article will be waiting when you get back. I promise. Now that you are better informed about the importance and of a good, structured strength regimen and how it is […]
What the Karate Kid can teach you about swim drills
Posted Articles(from Coach Dominic) I just got back from a weekend of teaching coaches certifications and stroke clinics. Everyone, coaches, swimmers and triathletes wanted to know what swim drills to do for x, y, and z corrections or how to get faster. It made me realize that so many people think there is some secret swim drill […]
Freestyle Speed & Technique Round Table – TSC Podcast #115
Posted PodcastsDownload this episode On this special episode, we have a panel discussion with 3 experts in tackling a couple of the most debated issues in the triathlon swimming world. Meet Tim Crowley an accomplished triathlon & swim coach from Florida, Eric Neilsen, recent Colorado Masters Swim Coach of Year of Train Smart Race Fast, and Rob […]
What strength training articles don’t tell you
Posted Articles, NewslettersIf you skim through any triathlon magazine, forum, or blog, you are bound to find some article or blog on strength training for triathletes or the best weight lifting movements for triathletes. With some variation, these movements are: Deadlift Squat Lat pull down Lunge Box jumps The above movements are all great exercises, but, I […]
The hardest workout of all
Posted Articles, NewslettersIn my opinion, the hardest workout exercises of all is not the 4×1000 or the 500 for time or the 10×100 with the interval set at your race pace; no, the hardest workout is the after work workout. Some people thrive in the hours from 4-9pm thus making getting to the pool after a full […]
5 Reasons You’re Not Swimming Any Faster Review – TSC Podcast #114
Posted PodcastsDownload this episode Questioning “Why Can’t I Swim Faster” or “How to train to swim faster”. Kevin and Chris tackle an article from TriathlonWorld.com titled “5 Reasons You’re Not Swimming Any Faster.” The two hosts discusses each reason and what they think about it. Get tips to swim faster and learn the pros and cons from […]
A better way to use the pull buoy
Posted Articles, NewslettersMost swimmers put the pull buoy between their thighs close to their hips to keep their lower body from sinking and to isolate their arms more by minimizing their kick. However, there is a different and, in my opinion, better way to place and use the pull buoy by putting it between the ankles. This […]
Your guide to rotation in the water
Posted Articles, NewslettersHave you ever been told that you swim flat in the water? Some programs and coaches think that swimming flat in the water is perfectly normal and should not be corrected but at TSC, we take a different approach because there is a right way to rotate and a very wrong way to rotate. While […]
The Tri Swim Rules Part 2 – TSC Podcast #113
Posted PodcastsDownload this episode This is the second part of the Tri Swim Rules episode where Kevin discusses the rest of the “Tri Swim Manifesto”. If you haven’t listened to the first part, here it is: Part 1 In this quick episode, you will learn about a TriSwimSuccess story, the four remaining triathlon pool swimming rules, and […]
3 essential stretches for triathletes
Posted Articles, NewslettersTriathletes are notorious for being inflexible and on the precipice of injury. Maybe it is the fact that we are doing three sports all of which have repetitive movements and where poor form can have season ending consequences after doing the same move for the billionth time. I myself visit my chiropractor once a week […]
The Tri Swim Rules Part 1 – TSC Podcast #112
Posted PodcastsDownload this episode Kevin is flying solo on this episode and he shares about the “Tri Swim Rules”, the redesign and sort of rebranding of the TriSwimCoach website. Exciting things are coming and one of them is the Tri Swim Manifesto. It’s basically the triathlon pool swim rules for beginners that encompass the whole Tri […]
Getting faster 25m at a time
Posted Articles, NewslettersIn this lesson, you will get efficient swimming tips and workout techniques that will improve your swimming speed. Let me tell you a little secret of the swim world: you do not have to swim 1000m repeats or 5k for time to get faster. In fact, if you are a beginner swimmer, shorter repeats like […]
Swim Outside The Box With Dominic Latella of The Swim Box – TSC Podcast #111
Posted PodcastsDownload this episode Coach Dominic Latella is the only US Masters Swimming (USMS) Level 4 (the highest certification available) certified coach in VA. He is an instructor for USMS Certifications and the USMS Adult Learn to Swim program. He is the owner and lead instructor of SwimBox, where they specialize in swim lessons for people of […]
Not All Swim Training Is Equal: How To Train For Your Level – TSC Podcast #110
Posted PodcastsDownload this episode Topics discussed in this episode: Swimming training plan for beginner, intermediate, and advanced swimmers importance of swim drills overcoming fear of water and swimming better breathing watching YouTube videos to help improve your technique when to incorporate more intensity interval training swimming sprints vs. distance fixing bad swimming habits building endurance yoga & strength […]
Take away from my own video analysis
Posted Articles, Newsletters(by Coach Chris) This past Saturday, I had my swim stroke analyzed. I have had at least a biannual swim video analysis since I started swimming, and even though my swim has progressed to times that I could not imagine 10 years ago, I still make sure that I maintain this tradition although the frequency […]
Overcoming Adversity and the Transformational Power of Sisu with Emilia Lahti – TSC Podcast #109
Posted PodcastsDownload this episode Emilia Lahti (MSc, MAPP) is a researcher and social activist, whose life mission is to simply be a catalyst for human connection, compassion and non-violence. She has given talks at Stanford, UC Berkeley and TEDx, as well as at Singularity University at NASA Ames, where she studied futurism and exponential technology. Her […]
Distance Per Stroke revisited
Posted Articles, Newsletters“Distance Per Stroke” or DPS pops up in a good deal of swim blogs, newsletters, workouts (TSC included), and forums, but is it something you should really focus on? At TSC, we think so but not because of what you might think. To us, DPS swimming drills is not just extending your arm a tad bit […]
Testing Not Guessing
Posted Articles, NewslettersWhat can be measured can be improved, as the old adage goes, and that is certainly true for the swim. Testing allows you to track progress, look for limiters, and sharpen your mental game. Since not all tests are created equal nor complimentary to your goals as an athlete, I am giving you three different […]
17 anti-resolutions for 2017
Posted Articles, NewslettersIf you read my newsletter from last week, you know that I am not a fan of New Year’s nor resolutions. Instead, I prefer anti new year’s resolutions and creating lasting mini habits that are so small you immediately say to yourself “Wow! I can do those easily.” While small, only tackle one at a time–TRUST […]
Is high level triathlon training healthy? – TSC Podcast #108
Posted PodcastsDownload this episode Questioning “Is advanced & high Intensity triathlon training healthy”? In this episode, Brad Kearns, host of The Primal Endurance Podcast, joins Kevin & Chris in a discussion on the health benefits and health factor of high level triathlon training. They discuss: Balancing health and fitness Stress management Sleep & Circadian Rhythm Genetic […]
The “Inbetween Zone”
Posted Articles, NewslettersIn between Christmas and New Years might be the oddest fitness week of the year. Many people are coming out of a stressful holiday run up full of work parties, last minute shopping, travel, family gatherings, tantrums (from kids and adults alike), and an endless supply of sweets, alcohol, and rich, dense foods. However, the […]
The Wim Hof Breathing Method with Andrew Harper – TSC Podcast #107
Posted PodcastsDownload this episode In this episode, Kevin interviews Andrew Harper, a Tri Swim Coach member and age group triathlete from Virginia. They discuss: Transitioning from running to a triathlon How Andy improved his swimming skills Proper breathing techniques What is the Wim Hof method Benefits of using the Wim Hof method in triathlon training Eating clean Links & […]
How the Triathlete Stole Swim Practice
Posted Articles, NewslettersThis is a modified reprint of a newsletter that I wrote last year. Enjoy: “How the Triathlete Stole Swim Practice” Every Swimmer Down in the pool Liked swimming a lot But the Triathlete Who watched on the pool deck DID NOT. This triathlete hated these triathlon training workouts and swim practice sessions! The whole swim […]
Overcoming Addiction & Becoming a World Champion with Karlyn Pipes – TSC Podcast #106
Posted PodcastsDownload this episode In this episode, Kevin interviews Karlyn Pipes, an International Swimming Hall of Famer, motivational speaker and the author of The Do-Over, a memoir about her struggles and victories with addiction. They discuss about how to become a swimming world champion: Why Karlyn wrote her book, The Do-Over What it was like for her […]
Two ways to increase front end power
Posted Articles, NewslettersA few weeks ago I posted an article on front end power and how that swimmers need to focus on the front end swimming (i.e. the catch and pull) rather than the finish of the swimming stroke. We received a couple questions on the best way to improve this, so I wanted to go into this […]
Increasing front end power
Posted Articles, NewslettersIf you were at the swim summit, then you might have heard Karlyn Pipes talk about how we have been swimming and being taught to swim incorrectly. If you did not catch the summit or her talk there is a great review on this website. In essence she said that many swimmers focus too much […]
How to train for a triathlon when you’re a busy professional – with Triathlon Taren
Posted PodcastsTri Swim Coach Podcast #105 In this podcast, Kevin interviews Taren Gessell, Triathlon Taren of Youtube fame. They discuss: -Becoming Triathlon Taren -Most popular triathlon topics -Beginner swimmers training for triathlon -Triathlon as a lifestyle -Brick workouts -Maffetone Method advantages -Guide to Triathlon Swimming for busy professionals References Taren’s Website – http://triathlontaren.com Triathlon Taren on Youtube Triathlon […]
Winter Training Pitfalls
Posted Articles, NewslettersMany beginner triathletes have the great goal of improving their swim over the winter, but when spring comes they are usually disappointed with their improvements especially in the open water. Why? I have picked apart several training plans and traditional, typical programs to find the most common mistakes that are slowing your swim gains during […]
Global Swimming Summit: Sneak Preview (Audio Podcast)
Posted PodcastsIn this podcast, Kevin discusses the ongoing Global Triathlon Swimming Summit, how to sign up, and plays a highlight reel of the free online conference. References Register for the Global Swimming Summit: http://globalswimmingsummit.com Please help us out with a rating & review on iTunes! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/tri-swim-coach-triathlon-swimming/id306454334?mt=2 http://traffic.libsyn.com/triswimcoach/TSC_GSS_AudioHighlights.mp3Podcast: DownloadSubscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS
Joci Goggle Review
Posted Articles, NewslettersThere is a glut of goggles on the market all claiming to be different and special. From the wide scuba like masks that claim 140 degree vision to the minimalist, old school socket rockets, whatever your preference/goal is there is a goggle for it. Since everyone has different facial structures it is hard to rate […]
From Dead Last to Podium Finish in 4 Years – Interview with Steve Mallard
Posted UncategorizedIn this podcast, Kevin interviews Tri Swim Coach member Steve Mallard, about his progress going from not swimming to finishing mid-pack in just four years. We discuss: – Masters swimming & one-on-one lessons – The importance of underwater video feedback – Mixing up workouts – drills AND intervals AND long swims – Toys – fins, […]
Beginner triathlon guide: Where to start
Posted ArticlesUnlike any other sport, triathlon can incredibly intimidating to get started in. Not only do you have to deal with essentially three training schedules in one, but also not every source agrees with how you should train. A simple Google search will regurgitate at least 10 different programs, most of which contradict each other in […]
Muscular Endurance Workouts
Posted Articles, NewslettersMuscular Endurance focused workouts are in my opinion some of the best workouts you can do at all levels of swimming training with the exception of a green beginner. Essentially, what these exercises are those that fatigue your arms first through a variety of evil, maniacal and crafty ways and then tells you to swim […]
Are Drills Overated?
Posted Articles, NewslettersDrills are actually a pretty controversial topic among swimming and triathlon coaches. Some, like Brett Sutton and Matt Dixon, both of whom have coached numerous Olympiads and Ironman Champions between see drills as unimportant for becoming a better swimmer in fact it is better to spend your time with intensity. Matt Dixon goes as far […]
Being a Fit Triathlete
Posted PodcastsIn this podcast, you can learn how to become a fit swimmer. Kevin discusses the upcoming Tri Swim Coach webinar, The Fit Triathlete. The 4 pillars of optimal health & fitness for triathletes include: 1. Psychology 2. Nutrition 3. Rest/recovery/sleep 4. Workouts Reference – Signup for the webinar at http://thefittriathlete.com Please help us out with […]
Raising the BAARR this off season
Posted Articles, NewslettersIn the Northern Hemisphere, the tri season is coming to a strong close, while in the Southern Hemisphere is just heating up. However, regardless of whether you are ready to hunker down in your hibernation training cave or whether you are emerging ready for longer hours outside, you are most likely laying down your goals […]
Five books and a podcast to help you this offseason
Posted Articles, NewslettersFor many of you (at least our Northern hemisphere readers and non Kona qualifiers), your last race is coming up more quickly than you want and after that a well deserved break as you enter the offseason. In my opinion, “off season” is a big misnomer. For many, It might conjure up images of pizza, […]
Getting Back Your Swim Mojo
Posted Articles, NewslettersI have a confession to make: from January through June, I only got in the water five times for a total of about 6000 yards. I started the year with full intentions to get faster in the water, increase my yardage, become more consistent, come out in the lead back instead of being overtaken by […]
Most Common Swim Questions Answered (Why You’re Not Alone) – TSC Podcast #102
Posted PodcastsIn this podcast, Kevin and Chris answer 4 common triathlon swimming questions. Points discussed: 1. How can i improve my swimming efficiency/Sinking Legs 2. Hitting a plateau 3. Race is coming up SOON- what to do 4. “I’m a slow swimmer” Also mentioned – Upcoming webinar, The Fit Triathlete, September 12th. Mark your calendars! Book […]
How close to a race should you make change?
Posted Articles, NewslettersUsually, around this time of year we get a lot of inquires from athletes about what to do the day before a triathlon race and whether they should start our program because they have a race coming up. “Is it even worth trying to change my bad habit?” He might say. “I know I am […]
Sinking Legs revisted
Posted Articles, NewslettersOne of the biggest sources of frustration for beginner swimmers and coincidentally the most common form error next to crossing over is sinking legs. It has been a while since we have addressed this and since we have received so many questions like “why do i sink when i swim”, “why my legs sink when […]
Your five point mental check list
Posted Articles, NewslettersIt is hard to keep track off all the different parts of the proper stroke: Make sure you keep your head straight… Don’t cross over…. Keep your elbow up… Watch out for doing an S curve…. Are your legs dragging… Are you hips sinking…. At times it seems so overwhelming, you forget to breathe—which is […]
Different strokes for different folks
Posted Articles, NewslettersI have been following the Olympic pre trials fairly religiously not only because I love seeing the split second finishes but also because I love analyzing the near perfect strokes and different types of swimming strokes. Recently one of my athletes asked me why the sprinters don’t use a high elbow catch? “Their arms are […]
What to do when you hit a plateau
Posted Articles, NewslettersLike in all fitness routines, plateaus are quite common in swimming if not more so. You swim for weeks and weeks and think you are improving, but after you do a TT, you find that you have only shaved off a few seconds. Or after every sprint, you feel like you have given your all […]
Drills to help improve breathing
Posted Articles, NewslettersThe most common problem that we see at Tri Swim Coach is breathing. Unfortunately, it is also the (or at least one of them) most critical part of swimming. Obviously, it is important because you need oxygen to survive and to go faster, but it is also critical in developing an efficient stroke. If you […]
4 Tips On Coming Back From an Injury – Tri Swim Coach Podcast #101
Posted UncategorizedIn this podcast, Kevin and Chris discuss the 4 tips on coming back from an injury. Points discussed: -Kevin’s shoulder issues -Joe Rogan podcast http://podcasts.joerogan.net/podcasts/steve-maxwell –Shoulder Pain? The Solution & Prevention, Revised & Expanded -4 Tips on coming back from an injury:”>Shoulder Pain book 1. Mental 2. Increase gradually 3. Rehab 4. Equipment Lava Pants […]
So you’re having shoulder issues…
Posted UncategorizedSwimming is a wonderful, healthy activity that comes along with far fewer injuries than say…running! The pavement pounding is not a factor as the water is a supportive environment. But the one common swimming injury, shoulders, tends to be really annoying! Quick personal story. I grew up swimming in an era where “More is better” […]
Fixing Imbalances
Posted Articles, NewslettersIf you look at many age group athletes’ stroke, you might notice that it is slightly imbalanced as if they were limping through the water. One arm might extend a little further, pull a little quicker, or recover across the water faster. Moreover, many of these same athletes get out of the water complaining that […]
3 Aquavelo Bricks to Include in Your Training
Posted Articles, NewslettersMany triathletes focus every week on mastering their bike to run transition by doing bricks, but they rarely focus on transitioning from swim to bike, a switch that is equally as important. By practicing your swim to bike, you train your legs to engage quickly after minimum use during the swim as well as train […]
7 habits of highly successful Age Group Triathletes
Posted Articles, NewslettersI know and have met many successful age group triathletes since I started triathlon just under 10 years ago. However, there is not one formula, one path, one secret, one plan that makes you great. While there are multiple paths all of which lead to the podium and PRs, I have noticed some common trends […]
Beyond the High Elbow Catch
Posted Articles, NewslettersFor years, we have been preaching the importance of the high elbow catch (HEC) and pull. Why? Because it is the most efficient way to propel you forward for longer distances without damaging your shoulders. Sprinters might go for a deep pull because it generates more power, lift, and reduction in drag, which is why […]
Attacking a Sugar Free IRONMAN
Posted Ambassadors, Articlesby Vince Sesto Tri Swim Coach Ambassador For me, my experiment with cutting out sugar and processed carbohydrates from my diet is over. It’s now become a natural day to day part of life and don’t see any way that I can now go back. My first IRONMAN was an amazing experience which has left […]
5 Tips To Get You Ready For Race Season – TSC Podcast #100
Posted PodcastsIn this podcast, Kevin and Chris discuss the 5 tips to get you ready for race season. Points discussed: -High elbow catch blog post: https://triswimcoach.com/high-elbow-catch 1. Plan 2. Intensity 3. Simulate 4. Get outside 5. Nutrition References: Tri Swim Coach plans on Training Peaks: https://www.triswimcoach.com/training-plans/ Mark Sisson interview on Tri Swim Coach: https://www.triswimcoach.com/fl099-primal-endurance-with-mark-sisson/ 3 Swim […]
What to do about swim panic in open water
Posted Articles, NewslettersAt Tri Swim Coach, our whole approach to coaching both physiologically and psychologically is to have you laugh at the water; we want you not only to start loving to swim instead of seeing it as the part of the race that you “just want to survive” (how many times have you heard or said […]