How Do Swimmers Learn to Swim Faster Than Another?

Improving swimming speed requires not only physical fitness but also understanding and applying the right techniques. Discover the key steps and strategies swimmers use to enhance their performance.

Hire a Coach

Learning to swim faster is a complex process involving numerous subtle techniques that need to be mastered. A coach can provide invaluable guidance and feedback. For example, rolling your hips, raising your elbow, sliding your hand into the water, and recovering while breathing—I'm sure there are training videos, but the proper execution can often be elusive. A coach on the pool deck can watch and evaluate your form, ensuring you're doing it right.

Focus on Strength Training

Strength training is crucial for swimmers. The goal is not just to build bulk but to improve core strength and leg curls, as well as front and back leg press. Additionally, using the lat machine and bench press can also enhance performance. Coaches can provide personalized recommendations, and even college swimmers might offer tips to refine your technique.

Join a Team for Support and Motivation

Swimming can be challenging, and having a supportive group can make a significant difference. Joining a team at your local gym, high school, college, or masters swimming training can help. Being part of a team can provide focused motivation and help you push through technical and workout challenges.

Master Techniques Through Practice

Professional swimmers dedicate countless hours to refining their strokes. Techniques like the freestyle, breaststroke, butterfly, and backstroke require precision and consistency. Outside the pool, swimmers engage in dynamic stretching, core strengthening, and conditioning workouts to build endurance.

Personalized Progress

Improving swimming speed is often a personal journey. After a year or two of dedicated practice, I found that my focus shifted from competing against others to racing myself. Top-level swimmers often copy each other's styles and training regimes, and talent and training fitness are crucial.

Additional Training Out of the Water

Swimming is a technique-driven sport, and over 50% of the speed comes from technique. To enhance your swimming, consider activities like yoga, Pilates, weight training, dance, and even other sports like running. Practicing your race, especially during high-stakes racing, can help you get used to the pressures of competition. Additionally, maintaining good sleep, eating natural foods for athlete nutrition, and having other interests outside of the sport can provide an edge.

Swimming might seem easy, but mastering the right techniques and consistently practicing can make the difference in your speed and performance.