Swim Smarter, Not Harder: Unlock Powerful Propulsion with F4L Triathlon Coaching
If you’ve been giving it your all in the water but not seeing the speed you deserve, you’re likely falling into a common trap: “slipping water.” This happens when your hand isn’t anchoring effectively, and instead of pulling your body forward, you’re just moving water around.
At F4L Triathlon Coaching, we coach swimmers to Swim Smarter—to harness efficient technique that delivers speed without brute force. Here’s how you can start transforming your stroke right now.
🏁 1. Early Vertical Forearm (EVF): Your Key to Swim Smarter
An EVF is one of the most effective ways to improve your catch and Swim Smarter with less wasted effort.
- Reach forward in line with your shoulder after hand entry—don’t rush it.
- Bend your elbow early and drop your forearm vertically so it “presses back.”
- Imagine pulling yourself past a barrel—not pushing water toward your feet.
❌ Avoid pressing down on the water—it flattens your body and drains your power.
✅ Focus on anchoring and pressing back. That’s how smart swimmers move fast.
🖐️ 2. Feel The Catch: The Smart Way to Build Speed
Smart swimming means mastering the sensation of water resistance on your palm and forearm.
Swim Smarter drills:
- Sculling: Feel how water flows across your hands.
- Doggy Paddle: Strengthen the high-elbow catch with short, precise strokes.
⏳ Slow your stroke to gain control and increase propulsion—not by muscling through, but by mastering feel.
🚫 3. Dead Spots Kill Momentum: Keep Things Moving
Long glides at the front of the stroke feel elegant—but they rob you of rhythm. To Swim Smarter, maintain a consistent tempo:
- Think: Reach → Catch → Pull without pausing.
- Visual cue: Hands on a conveyor belt—always flowing forward.
🎯 Eliminate jerky motions, dropped elbows, and over-gliding. Keep it smooth, connected, and rhythmical.
💡 Swim Smarter with F4L Coaching
Want a deep dive into your technique with expert feedback tailored to you?
📹 Book a 121 Swim Analysis with F4L Triathlon Coaching—get actionable insights and detailed breakdowns to help you Swim Smarter instantly.
Ready to unlock your potential and take your training to the next level?
Coach Paul brings a wealth of international coaching experience and a passion for performance to every athlete he works with. As a British Triathlon Federation & IRONMAN Certified Coach, Paul offers a deeply personalised, professional approach to triathlon and endurance coaching.
At F4L Triathlon Coaching, no two athletes are the same. Whether you're just starting out or chasing a new PB, you'll receive expert guidance tailored to your goals, lifestyle, and ambitions. With dependable support and proven methods, F4L helps you train smarter, race stronger, and enjoy the journey.
Join the community of athletes reaching further. Start your coaching journey with Coach Paul today.
