Trying to figure out how to take a breath when my arm is extended vs 30- 40% down towards the bottom of the pool. Is it a timing thing? High elbow catch totally elusive as well. Late start in proper technique.
I like his site, coach Robb, and swim smooth. Triathlon Taren another good one. I've noticed some big differences between pool coaches and tri coaches approach. I try and cherry pick from all the sites. Case in point: a tri coach I've used exhales right before she gets a breath, says the air you retain aids in floatation. The swim coach I've tried says start exhaling asap.
Bent arm catch elusive, straight arm is what I'm stuck with for now. 😱 thanks for your info!
I've noticed some big differences between pool coaches and tri coaches approach..........a tri coach I've used exhales right before she gets a breath, says the air you retain aids in floatation. The swim coach I've tried says start exhaling asap.
Bent arm catch elusive, straight arm is what I'm stuck with for now.  thanks for your info!
I've seen some very different things triathletes do, and most of the ones I see are weak swimmers. That said, some of what drives them is likely the fact taht they do some open water swimming and need to look forward when they breathe occasionally, rather tahn behind them. I used to think like your above referenced coach does, until I worked with my kids' coach (who explained the above to me about how the body sees that air). Additionally, you'll have a harder time clearing out the old air if you try to do it all at once, quickly. Proper technique while swimming will also help your body create lift in the water, probably moreso than the additional air.
Try the fingertip drag drill to help you wiht hte bent arm recovery.
In my opinion, you should start the breath prior to the opposite arm entering the water. Your pulling arm drives the rotation to the other side, which includes turning your head in conjunction with your hips (a la hip-driven freestyle).
Avidly reading this thread - nothing to add but wanted to let you all know I think your discussion's helpful; going to try out these tips next session in the pool myself! I struggle a lot with breathing timing, although tbh, I struggle with LOTS about swimming at this early point!! :-)