Probably should have asked these two questions before now. I have a 2.4 miler in the morning in the Ohio River near Louisville. It's 1.2 mile course repeated with half the course up stream and half downstream. Organizers promise the current is only 1 mph. Last year I did a swim across the Ohio in Cincinnati. While warming up in what was supposed to be a 2 mph current, I really noticed the impact (I typically only average about 2.5 mph without a current.) So here are my two questions:
When swimming up stream, should I adjust stroke rate and length? My typical ow distance stroke is a slower stroke rate, but maximum stretch and pull on each stroke (about 14 per 25y). But I'm wondering if more compact strokes at a higher rate would make a difference.
Like cycling should I coast more on the downstream portions and dig in on the upstream?
Parents
Former Member
In general, yes, increase rate & decrease length in going upstream and stretch out on the downstream. If you have a strong kick (not me), you don't have to shorten quite as much.
Also:
1) When going upstream it is usually best to get as close to the shore as possible (slowest current) and when going downstream, get as close to the middle of the river as you can. That's a general rule of thumb and there are exceptions.
2) Get a satellite map of the course and review it for possible points where the going might be easier/harder.
-LBJ
In general, yes, increase rate & decrease length in going upstream and stretch out on the downstream. If you have a strong kick (not me), you don't have to shorten quite as much.
Also:
1) When going upstream it is usually best to get as close to the shore as possible (slowest current) and when going downstream, get as close to the middle of the river as you can. That's a general rule of thumb and there are exceptions.
2) Get a satellite map of the course and review it for possible points where the going might be easier/harder.
-LBJ
