what is the optimal differential between the first and second 50 on a 100 yard short course freestyle? The first 50 benefits from the dive and the relative freshness of the swimmer; the second 50 requires two turns and contending with lactate and fatigue.
Is it better to go all out and try to hold on, or save a little for the end?
Say you can swim an all-out 50 by itself at 25 seconds. How would you ideally swim the 100?
Example: 25.5 then 28.5 for 3 second differential and a 54.0
or 26.0 and 28 for a 2 second differential and a 54.
Which method do you think is best?
I think the reality is almost everyone's going to hold back a little on the first 50, that's why you need to go in with the mentality that you're going to go out as fast as you can. I do agree with Rob that your training and swimming strengths are a factor. Unless you're in great shape taking out the first 50 within a second of your PB is going to take its toll on the second. However, I think if you are in great shape and want the fastest possible 100 free this is what you need to do.
I think the reality is almost everyone's going to hold back a little on the first 50, that's why you need to go in with the mentality that you're going to go out as fast as you can. I do agree with Rob that your training and swimming strengths are a factor. Unless you're in great shape taking out the first 50 within a second of your PB is going to take its toll on the second. However, I think if you are in great shape and want the fastest possible 100 free this is what you need to do.
