Ack. It appears that I am going to have to break down and finally swim my first masters 100 SCY free at zones. Since I'm sure you all have done it many times, can someone please tell me what is the most ideal breathing pattern(s)? I noticed watching the World Championships that many of the 100 freestylers (especially the men) breathed almost every stroke, which is not how I used to swim that race. Were they breathing more to save for the SDKs? What say you freestyle sprinters?
I've never really given much thought to breathing pattern for the 100 other than to just breathe as necessary. Looking back on my recent races I think my breathing was as follows: After the breakout I would go 3 or 4 strokes before my first breath, then breathe on 3 until the urge to go on 2 takes control. And on the final 25 I don't think I take a breath from the midpoint of the pool to the finish. I just keep my head down and "kick and scratch" to the wall. Also I don't breathe off the turns until I've taken at least 2 strokes after breakout. I think the most important thing is to not "overthink" the race. Having a plan going in is fine but don't let that plan control the swim. When you hit the water, don't think, just swim. I know you'll do great. :groovy: Hope this helps.:banana:
I've never really given much thought to breathing pattern for the 100 other than to just breathe as necessary. Looking back on my recent races I think my breathing was as follows: After the breakout I would go 3 or 4 strokes before my first breath, then breathe on 3 until the urge to go on 2 takes control. And on the final 25 I don't think I take a breath from the midpoint of the pool to the finish. I just keep my head down and "kick and scratch" to the wall. Also I don't breathe off the turns until I've taken at least 2 strokes after breakout. I think the most important thing is to not "overthink" the race. Having a plan going in is fine but don't let that plan control the swim. When you hit the water, don't think, just swim. I know you'll do great. :groovy: Hope this helps.:banana:
