I know it's common to have a better side to breathe to, and in general we have a stronger side. Lately I've been troubled by noticing that my left-side pull doesn't seem to "catch" as much water as my right side one--my left hand and arm just seem to swish through the water. I'm working on several aspects of stroke mechanics right now but can't seem to improve this part--even when really focusing on it and doing slow sets. I just started swimming with a master's team but wanted to get your ideas, too!
Would pulling sets help or just lock in my bad habits? What about drills for bilateral breathing? More strength training? Any thoughts?
Laura
I also wanted to share my excitement at dropping 2 strokes (hand strikes) from my strokes per distance (25). I was swimming by myself today and had noone to tell. Surprised the crap out of me: 10, 11, 12 WALL!..What? Cool.
Former Member
Yes, pull sets and drill sets can help, but only if you do them while your brain is engaged....try one arm freestyle and "watch" your arm enter and catch. I also found that using shaped paddles (I have TRY paddles) let me feel my stroke and hence alter it. Alternating paddle, regular pull, then fist drill, then regular pull may help.
But as you've started with a team, ask your coach!
Also, develop both sides breathing. Breathe every three strokes if you can; lovely )not!) sets are 100s - first 25 breathe every three, 2nd every 5; 3rd every 7 and 4th aim at breathing only once.
12 total strokes, one for each hand entry, sounds incredible for a 25 yard pool. With a reasonable pushoff the best I can get at a moderate pace is 18. I suppose I could reduce my speed/turnover rate and take fewer strokes. Are you swimming front quadrant? Is your kick exceptionally powerful?
Before this most recent time I counted, I was averaging about 14-16. I try to focus on a good body roll and keeping streamlined. The two things I think really helped were not starting and ending my stroke too early. I think I do tend to swim in a more "front quadrant" style. Oh, and my kick probably isn't helping any. It sucks!
:D
Just think: if I could fix this lopsided-ness thing, maybe I could do 12 consistently and not just when I think really really hard about it! And yes, engaging the brain is as important as getting in the water, IMHO.
my coach had me do one arm drills. Hated them!, but helps with both breathing, stroke and balance. Hold one arm out in front as if in streamline, stroke with the other and concentrate on the catch etc. Do right arm up, left arm back. You will only be able to breathe on the side you are using to stroke with.
