Swim Training-Metronome

[Randy]

Ginny-more info on the metronome type item that helped you with your swim pace/turn over.
Info/brand would be appreciated.  Randy

[SimonC]

I'm not Vernon's authority on swimming, but I would not recommend the Tempo trainer to someone who needs stroke improvemnt work ... I'm speaking generally ...
I'm sure Andrew will comment but forcing a specific cadence will be at a detriment to your technique. I have a tempo trainer and I will not use it until I am more comfortable with my stroke.
The company is Finnis and the trade name is tempo trainer (http://www.finisinc.com/Technology/Tempo/details.aspx)
SC

[GinnySellars]

My coach has asked me to try something out for 4-6 wks to see the effect.

Theory:
1. Perfect stroke, low stroke count for any real swimming ie. without aids.
2. High cadence work using a cadence meter and turtle paddles to reduce resistance.

This means I can do nothing in "no-man's land" meaning OK stroke count, moderate speed and cadence. He doesn't want me practicing ANY crappy or average stroke. The idea is to only ingrain perfect stroke pattern (or the best I can do), and only work on cadence with an aid that allows my arms to move through the water with less resistance (kind of like swimming 'fist')

Yes Randy....it's Finis Tempo Trainer. I think trigeeks.ca may be selling them now.

[Randy]

Thanks all, good comments on technique first. Appreciated....I guess more pool time first. See you in there.
R

[Andrew]

Ginny's summary is accurate...I do not see the point of working on cadence until the technique is sound. The goal should be 14-16 strokes per length. It sounds crazy. But every person I have worked with can accomplish this by the end of day #1 IF they slow down and pay attention to two simple ideas.

1) Body position
2) Rotation

Both of these MUST be performed in a way that minimizes drag. Once you have mastered some very simple drills to improve these two factors, then 16 strokes is actually very easy. Then, it is simply reinforcing the technique, and NEVER practicing an inefficient stroke. It does not take strength or power, but simply a pure focus on technique.

I hope to see you all at the pool soon. I will make a note on Facebook when I know I will be at the pool next, and anyone is welcome to join me there for drills. Ginny is also getting very good at sharing the ideas, even if she is not quite ready to put them into race pace swimming yet.