On the poolside I like to tell my swimmers to make the most of every stroke. Each stroke should be purposeful and move you towards the end of the pool.
Sounds obvious.
However, a lot of swimmers take a stroke “so they can get to the next stroke”. Almost windmilling their arms. No real thought about how far or fast each stroke is taking you.
Simply, you want to push water backwards. Each stroke should be focused on doing that. You should also keep a firm hand and wrist (I’ve written about this before) so you ‘hold’ more water.
A key indicator, for me, is when I ask swimmers to use hand paddles. The paddle is firm so helps the swimmer have a solid hold on the water during the pull. If they swim significantly quicker with paddles, or take significantly less strokes per length, or feel they use ‘more muscles’ than usual – then it’s an indication that they usually swim with ‘soft hands’ and don’t hold water well on the pull. Try it and see for yourself?
When you’re next swimming, think about your stroke. Are you making the most of each arm pull? Does your palm face backwards? Do you feel like each arm pull is moving you forwards? Left and right arm? Do you feel pressure on your hands? Does it feel like you are pushing?
Try it and let me know? I’d be really interested in your feedback on this.