Tag: swim

Dive into Speed: 3 Tips to Amp Up Your Swim Race Performance

by fullcircle, posted in Blogs, Swim, Testing

Many of you just finished Swim Miami, and maybe you want to get faster for your next open water swim race.

3 Techniques to Improve Your Speed in Your Next Open Water Swim Race

Video analysis
Getting a video of your swimming technique above and below the water is a simple way to get faster. Then, you can correct your technique by doing the drills prescribed by an experienced coach who can identify the areas you need to improve without changing your training! You will go faster if every stroke, kick, and breath is more streamlined. Smooth is fast in swimming. (Please set up a call with me if you want me to analyze your swim stroke virtually! Book a call here)

Speed Work
If you add speed training just 1 day/ week, you can unlock your potential for speed in races. Speed work examples would be: 30 x 25 on :45 seconds; 20 x 50 on 1:15 or 10 x 100 on 2:30.

Practicing speed and technique in the open water
So many swimmers only swim long distances in their open water swim training, but including speed work and technique drills in the open water will help you maintain the speed and technique in the open water where you will be racing!

Bonus Tip
This is probably the most important secret to getting faster in your next swim event. Check it out to access this essential secret that is a priority over all the others.

From Being Hit by a Car to Starting his Triathlon Journey: Meet UTC Rockstar Mark Testoni

by fullcircle, posted in Bike, ROCKSTARS, Run, Swim, Ultimate Tri Camp

Rockstar Triathlete: Mark Testoni

Coaches Notes:

Mark and I met a year ago and almost started coaching when he was hit by a car on his bike. We had to postpone training until he recovered, and camp was the perfect kickstart to his training program. He could swim, bike, and run again, so I invited him to join us. 

Since we have three different coaching levels at Ultimate Tri Camp, he started on day one in the C group and had enough fitness to enter the B group on day 2.

I’m super proud of Mark for putting aside his hesitation at being a newbie and simply embracing his own process and learning each day. 

His progress has been impressive, and I’m super excited about his 2024 Tri Season. We will start with a few sprints, move to International Distance, and end the year with a 70.3. 

Let’s Do this, Mark! You are a Rockstar Ultimate Tri Camper!

Age: 68

Profession: I am a semi-retired military and tech industry executive. I am currently Chairman of cBEYONData, a software and tech services firm. 

Why did you choose Ultimate Tri Camp for help in your triathlon journey?
As an older athlete new to the sport, I wanted to learn and hear the experiences of others in the sport. I am pretty much a novice, but I have experience as a modestly successful distance runner from many years ago.
Avid Peloton rider in recent years. Nowhere near a lap pool in 50 years.

Coach Erinne articulated how the camp could help—and it did!

 

Please share your BIG goals and how Ultimate Tri Camp supported you:

1. Understand how to approach training and recovery. Discussions and listening to the experiences of athletes and coaches are all amazingly helpful.

2. Become an effective swimmer at a distance. I arrived at camp with the ability of your average rock—floating was a challenge 😂 . I learned a number of swim drills. I watched and was very much inspired by the rest of the group and their great abilities. I am very motivated to improve—I will soon.

3. Want to complete a 70.3 when ready—so inspired beyond watching and listening to everyone at camp. I’m a determined person, and everyone was so encouraging—I have no doubt I will get there.

Tell me about your successes so far:

I spent my past year recovering from a cycling accident and some secondary physical challenges. Camp timing was perfect as I am starting to ramp up.

1. More confident in the water.

2. Improved running and biking technique.

3. Signed up with FCC for the complete Triathlon Transformation training program!

What were some of your most considerable Improvements in performance at Ultimate Tri Camp?

Swim: Arrived: swimming like a ‘listing ship.’ Departed: drilling properly and more focused.
Bike: Better technique with riding in groups and climbing
Run: Improved body and arm position
Nutrition/Health: Comprehend the purpose of supplements and their use.
Mindset: inspired and highly motivated.

Name 2 or 3 things that have made the most significant difference in your triathlon performance after participating in Ultimate Tri Camp:

1. Inspiration—from the athletes and coaches. Each gave me ideas, lessons, and shared experiences that genuinely moved and motivated me—even more than I could have ever expected.

2. Network—knowing so many others with FCC is a resource, help, and encouragement.

3. Knowledge—learned so much.

What excites you the most about being involved in triathlon? 
It’s the ultimate sport, where you work and compete primarily against yourself to achieve goals, yet collaborate with coaches and other athletes to pursue goals. It transcends specific abilities and drives focus, preparation, and determination. I am very excited to drive toward objectives in parallel with a great team.

What was your favorite part of Ultimate Tri Camp?

I’d be lying if I said it was the ‘ice plunge’ 🧊 😂. The people and camaraderie were second to none. I’ve used the word ‘inspired’ a ton at camp and after. I owe so much to everyone who attended; it boosted my journey.

What would you say to someone on the fence about attending Ultimate Tri Camp?
Go! It’s a safe environment for interested athletes at any level or point in their journey.

Are you coming back next year?
Absolutely

Do you want results like these?

Join us at Ultimate Tri Camp 2025 and learn cutting-edge swim, bike, run, and strength training skills to improve your speed and efficiency.

Ultimate Tri Camp is a 7-day event guaranteed to improve physical and mental performance.
 The Ultimate Tri Camp experience touches your soul and empowers your performance like nothing you’ve ever tried.  It’s the perfect venue to fine-tune your training and get you RACE READY!

All level triathletes are welcome.  Our triathlon camp programs are specifically designed to zone in and strengthen skills based on your athletic level.

Register before April 15, 2024, and get 30% off the registration fee (payment plans available). Click here to register today!

 

Erinne Guthrie has been a USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach since 1999 and Chief Motivating Officer at Full Circle Coaching, LLC since 2010. She has been training, racing, and coaching triathletes since 1997.  She is also a CHEK Holistic Lifestyle Coach Level 3, USMS Master’s Swim Coach, Motivational Speaker, Metabolic Efficiency Specialist, Mom, and more.

Even Coaches Can Benefit from UTC! – Heather’s Rockstar Story

by fullcircle, posted in ROCKSTARS, Run, Swim, Ultimate Tri Camp

Rockstar Triathlete: Heather Shrouds

Coaches Notes: Heather reached out in January, excited to be able to get such a great discount on Ultimate Tri Camp as a USAT certified USAT Coach, earn her CEUs, AND learn the “behind the scenes ” about how I coach my athletes and the Full Circle Coaching Methodology. 

I love being able to support USA Triathlon coaches in the application of their knowledge.

There are many different coaching styles, but with my 27 years of experience coaching thousands of triathletes and hosting over 20 triathlon camps, I believe that including training in more than just swimming, biking, and running is imperative to keeping a triathlete doing the sport they love for a lifetime. 

At Camp, Heather saw firsthand how to coach the campers on the importance of technique in the swim, bike and running can prevent injuries from overusing the repetitive motion of a triathlon with the use of video analysis and metabolic field testing. Learning breath work, Kihara stretching, Eldoa spine strength, foot strength, and so much more can impact her triathlon performance and help her coach the athletes she is coaching. 

Thanks, Heather, for coming in with an open mind and participating fully at Ultimate Tri Camp. You have so many new tools to implement into your coaching practice! You are a true Rockstar Coach/ and Camper!

—

Age: 48

Profession: Personal Trainer and Triathlon Coach

Why did you choose Ultimate Tri Camp for help in your triathlon journey?
I was at this triathlon camp to earn my CECs for my USAT Certification and improve my form in my swim and run. I knew something was off, but I was still determining what to expect. This was my first triathlon camp ever!

Please share your BIG goals and how Ultimate Tri Camp supported you:
My big goals are to swim 750m under 15 minutes, bike 20+mph, and run a 20-minute 5k
I started my weight loss journey in the fall of 2009. I have lost 100 lbs so far. I fell in love with Triathlon after my first swim, even though I was terrified of the open water. Triathlon and Duathlon Worlds and I have qualified for and competed in Age Group Nationals.

Tell me about your successes so far:

Swim – being more efficient and converting to breathing every 2 strokes instead of 3
Bike – getting my love back for riding outside.  I had been riding on the trainer a lot because of life schedule.   Riding in Clermont during Ultimate Tri Camp was beautiful, and riding in traffic was challenging, but I overcame my fear with the group’s safety.
Run – seeing my form on video during the video analysis and the corrections we made.

What were some of your biggest Improvements in performance at Ultimate Tri Camp?
I learned even more about my gut health. I love the ELDOA, meditation, and yoga. Honestly, it all was excellent.
1) Getting my love back for riding outside
2) Recovery strategies 
3) The Magnesium cream and Perfect Aminos are a game changer

What was your favorite part of Ultimate Tri Camp?
The camaraderie and the edge of competing with everyone—all of it, honestly. If I had to pick the ELDOAs, I have never done them before, but they’re a game changer for sure.

Are you coming back next year?
Yes, I plan on it!

Ready to get your best time yet?! Here’s how you can get access to Ultimate Tri Camp!

UTC 2025 will be held February 17-23, 2025 in Clearwater, Florida.

As one of our valued subscribers, you can take advantage of 30% off of registration if you claim your spot before April 15, 2024.

Click here to pay in full.

Click here for the payment plan.

Erinne Guthrie has been a USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach since 1999 and Chief Motivating Officer at Full Circle Coaching, LLC since 2010. She has been training, racing, and coaching triathletes since 1997.  She is also a CHEK Holistic Lifestyle Coach Level 3, USMS Master’s Swim Coach, Motivational Speaker, Metabolic Efficiency Specialist, Mom, and more.

From Heart Condition to Sprint Triathlon PR – Mark Fajet

by fullcircle, posted in ROCKSTARS, Run, Swim

Rockstar Triathlete: Mark Fajet

Coaches Notes:

I was definitely a little concerned with Mark’s prior heart condition when we started training, so I was extremely conservative about his progression through the training program. Prioritizing technique over tons of volume and gradually adding speed work in all three sports has proved effective. His results below are amazing! I am so proud of you, Mark. You are a Rockstar Triathlete with a lot of potential in the sport. Thanks for trusting the process and being open to learning a better way to train!

—

Age: 27

Profession: Software Engineer

Why did you choose FCC to help you on your triathlon/health and wellness journey?
I wanted to do triathlons, but then I was diagnosed with pericarditis after going to the ER with heart pains. I managed to get through it with no training for months. Then I did a triathlon on my own, but my training for it was very calm as I was worried to push myself. I joined full circle because Erinne was very supportive of easing me into higher loads of training and safely pushing myself.

What is your “A” race for this season?
Ironman 70.3 Haines City, December 2024

What are your BIG goals?
Complete an Ironman 70.3 this year and a Full Ironman next year.

What were some of your biggest improvements in performance for each of the following? Swim, Bike, Run, and Nutrition/Health. Please include any Personal Records and Goals achieved.our biggest improvements:
In the beginning, I was setting goals of running a 5k in under 30 minutes. Five months later, after joining the Triathlon Transformation Program, I ran a 5k in 24:45 and a 5k at the end of a sprint tri in 27:25

Before the program, my average bike pace at a sprint triathlon was 15.3mph. In the latest triathlon, my average pace was 19.96 mph.

Beyond the timing numbers, the biggest improvement was in my ability to run while keeping my heart rate low and stay in zone 2. Before the program, I would be running like a 16 minute mile in zone 2. Now, I am around 12 minute miles while in zone 2.

Name 2 or 3 things that have made the biggest difference in your journey.
Consistency and pushing my limits. Prior to joining full circle, all my workouts were too easy and I wasn’t really making as much progress.

What excites you the most about being involved in triathlon? 
The fact that there is always room for improvement and that I can see what I’m able to achieve when I put in the work.

What would you say to another person who was on the fence about joining our training program?
The coaches are very knowledgeable. They are able to provide lots of general information, specific information for you, and even specific information about race courses.

Do you want results like these?

Click this link: http://www.scheduleyou.in/5ZIsVaU to schedule your FREE Triathlon Transformation Session today!

Erinne Guthrie has been a USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach since 1999 and Chief Motivating Officer at Full Circle Coaching, LLC since 2010. She has been training, racing, and coaching triathletes since 1997.  She is also a CHEK Holistic Lifestyle Coach Level 3, USMS Master’s Swim Coach, Motivational Speaker, Metabolic Efficiency Specialist, Mom, and much more.

Are You Swimming with Scissors?

by fullcircle, posted in Blogs, Swim

Are you swimming with scissors?

Many swimmers and triathletes I work with don’t realize they are slowing themselves down while swimming due to using a scissor-style kick instead of a flutter kick.

Here are my top three corrective tips to cure your scissor kick.

A scissor kick is when your feet drift apart wider than the width of your shoulders while you swim freestyle which creates a ton of drag every time you kick,  impeding your forward movement.

The best flutter kick originates from the hips and stays within shoulder width in a vertical format.

Top 3 Tips to improve your kick

#1 FINS: Use fins for kick sets to help strengthen the ankles and hips. This is my favorite brand and model (Finis Z2 Gold Zoomers)

The flutter kick should be originating from the hips through an almost straight leg and down to a floppy ankle with a slightly pointed foot.

If you are scissor kicking, it indicates tight and weak ankles and hips.  Using fins for the following kick drills can help get rid of your scissor kick.

SAMPLE WORKOUT: Kick 100 yards with fins. – the first 25 kicks on your belly, the second 25 kicks on your side, the third 25 kicks on your back, and the last 25 kicks on the other side. 

Watch the video below:

BONUS PRACTICE: Repeat another 100 yards, all using a Dolphin Kick.

#2 VERTICAL KICKING must have a deep pool.
Start with fins and build up to 1 minute of vertical kicking time, adding rotation
1/4, 1/2, and whole turns to the right and the left while staying in one place is key.
Then, start practicing without fins and get to 1 minute of vertical kick time.

Watch the video below:

#3 DRY LAND FLUTTER KICKING – great for increasing hip and core strength
Lay on your back – palms down, tucked under your thighs. Chin to chest, head and shoulders off the ground. Lift straight legs off the ground and flutter kick with strong quads, straight knees, and pointed toes for 1 minute. Vary the speed of kicking to mix it up and challenge yourself.

Watch the video below:

WANT TO LEARN ALL THE MOST CRITICAL SKILLS FOR SWIMMING?

YOU CAN AT SWIM ESSENTIALS FEBRUARY 17 & 18!

Don’t let poor technique be the anchor that holds you back from your swimming aspirations!

Join me at the Swim Essentials Clinic on February 17 & 18, either in person or virtually. When you sign up now, you’ll also gain exclusive access to my Swim Essentials online course, brimming with expert tips and techniques to elevate your swimming prowess.

Don’t miss out—act now and take the first step toward becoming the swimmer you’ve always aspired to be!

SPACE IS LIMITED!

Save $100 on registration by using promo code SWIM100! SIGN UP HERE!

Do you have other questions? Click this link: https://go.appointmentcore.com/book/umg5sS to schedule your FREE Triathlon Breakthrough Session.

Erinne Guthrie is a USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach since 1999 and Chief Motivating Officer at Full Circle Coaching, LLC since 2010. Creator of the Triathlon Transformation. She has been training, racing, and coaching triathletes since 1997.  She is also a CHEK Holistic Lifestyle Coach Level 3, USMS Master’s Swim Coach, Motivational Speaker, Metabolic Efficiency Specialist, Mom, Mermaid, and much more.

Swimmers: How’s Your Head?

by fullcircle, posted in Blogs, Swim

Proper head position while swimming freestyle is probably the most common thing that needs correction when I work with swimmers.

99% of swimmers look forward instead of straight down in a neutral head and neck position.

Can you imagine walking around looking up all day?
Your neck would hurt, and you would miss out on a lot right in front of you!

When you look forward in the water, your forehead breaks the surface of the water (creating drag), and then your hips and legs drop low, also creating drag.

Then when you turn your head to breathe, your mouth is underwater, so you lift your head even higher to get air, and guess what? More drag, more resistance as you swim through the water! NOT FUN!

This is one of the reasons head-up swimmers are slower in the water- too much resistance slowing them down.

But there is a good explanation: swimming with your head up is where most new swimmers start.

We are land mammals and need air to live, and being in water can cause stress in our brains, we could die if we don’t know what we are doing, so the fear is real!

In addition, your fight-or-flight hormones can get triggered simply by being in the water unless you have adequately trained and built your confidence so you feel safe in the water.

The brain will tell the body, “the air is up, so you must lift your head to breathe.” But, as mentioned above, this causes drag and makes slipping through the water in your streamline difficult.

We must reprogram the brain, so it feels safe to face down in the water. Teach yourself to roll on your side rather than lift your head to breathe (look for my other swim technique videos on how to breathe properly while swimming in the water).

The Paddle Lead Drill:

This video will help you gain awareness of the perfect place for your head while swimming. With this drill, you can perfect your head position for less drag and still get all the air you need.

  • Start by kicking with fins on, arms by your side, and placing the paddle on the top of your head. 
  • Your forward movement will keep the paddle in place. Next, start face down, blow your bubbles, and flip onto your back to breathe, keeping the paddle in place.
  • The next progression is to kick on your side with the paddle on your head. Start by looking straight down and blowing bubbles out of your nose, then turn your head to the side to breathe without lifting the head and losing the paddle.
  • Turn the head so that one goggle and your mouth are clear of the water to breathe in, then look back down to the bottom of the pool and repeat the process. Be sure to practice both sides.

When you have mastered the above, add your arm movement and swim freestyle, still keeping the paddle in place, breathing, and stroking.

When the paddle stays in place the whole time, and you are not swallowing water, you know your head is in the correct position!

Finally, remove the fins and start the whole process over again.

Happy Swimming.

WANT TO LEARN ALL THE MOST CRITICAL SKILLS FOR SWIMMING?

You CAN at Swim Essentials February 17 & 18!

Don’t let poor technique be the anchor that holds you back from your swimming aspirations!

Join me at the Swim Essentials Clinic on February 17 & 18, either in person or virtually. When you sign up now, you’ll also gain exclusive access to my Swim Essentials online course, brimming with expert tips and techniques to elevate your swimming prowess.

Don’t miss out—act now and take the first step toward becoming the swimmer you’ve always aspired to be!

SPACE IS LIMITED!

Do you have other questions? Click this link: https://go.appointmentcore.com/book/umg5sS to schedule your FREE Triathlon Breakthrough Session.

Erinne Guthrie has been a USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach since 1999 and Chief Motivating Officer at Full Circle Coaching, LLC since 2010. She has been training, racing, and coaching triathletes since 1997.  She is also a CHEK Holistic Lifestyle Coach Level 3, USMS Master’s Swim Coach, Motivational Speaker, Metabolic Efficiency Specialist, Mom, and much more.

I’m shocked at how I feel in the water: Rockstar Swimmer Frantz Dunel

by fullcircle, posted in ROCKSTARS

I’m shocked at how I feel in the water: Swim Testimonial, Frantz Dunel

Coach’s Notes:
Frantz has come a very long way in the swim. Already a very strong runner, we started training for a sprint triathlon.

The swim was definitely his limiter. Being so strong, it can sometimes be difficult to learn that in the swim its all about being SMOOTH, and not pushing hard. After joining my Swim Essentials program and learning the step by step progression of learning how to swim freestyle for triathlon, Frantz has learned how to glide and relax more in the water so he can save energy to then be able to bike and run strong.

Congratulations Frantz, you are officially a SWIMMER!

Why did you want to learn to swim?
1) Well I never knew that I didn’t know how to swim SWIM until FC asked me to swim a few laps in the pool. Jumping off a boat and waddling around for a few minutes or a few strokes to the edge of the pool is not real swimming is what I realized. I wanted to learn the proper technique to further challenge myself, be able to compete in triathlons and to continue being as well rounded as possible for my kids. We live in Miami, we are always traveling to beach destinations or in a pool. Swimming is critical.

What was the hardest part in the process?
2) The hardest part was overcoming the mindset that it was impossible for me to become a swimmer because I had not been doing it for 10+ years like the rest of the group or swimmers at the pool. Swimming I have found to be one of the most challenging sports because it is extremely technical. I found and still find it difficult to put all the pieces together in order to swim “effortlessly”…balance, proper pull, full rotation on the side for breathing, long reach, straight legs and kicking from the hips etc etc.

How does it feel different in the water vs 6 months ago?
3) I am proud and somewhat shocked at how I feel in the water today vs 6 months ago. Aside from the exhausting swim workouts, I genuinely look forward to getting in the water as I feel much more comfortable and confident. As I swim my laps I can hear Coach Erinne in my head and I use that to correct my form, slow down and try and glide vs a frantic gasping for my next breath.

I look forward to moving up to the Olympic distance in May!

JOIN US FOR SWIM ESSENTIALS CLINIC – February 17th & 18th!

Day 1: February 17th. Meet us at Miami Dade College South Campus Pool (9:00 am – 2:00 pm).

Day 2: February 18th. Meet us at our Full Circle Training Spot on Key Biscayne (8:30 am – 12:00 pm)

It’s an amazing opportunity to be in the water with our expert coaches getting hands on instruction to power up your swim!

Ready to Register? Click Here!

Use promo code SWIM100 to save $100 on registration until 2/7/24!


Or, click this link: https://go.appointmentcore.com/book/umg5sS to schedule your FREE Triathlon Breakthrough Session to see if this program is for you!

Erinne Guthrie is a USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach since 1999 and Chief Motivating Officer at Full Circle Coaching, LLC since 2010. Creator of the 16 week Triathlon Transformation. She has been training, racing and coaching triathletes since 1997.  She is also a CHEK Holistic Lifestyle Coach Level 3, USMS Master’s Swim Coach, Motivational Speaker, Metabolic Efficiency Specialist, Mom, Mermaid and much much more.

Rockstar Swimmer Christine Baldwin Focuses on Progress over Perfection

by fullcircle, posted in ROCKSTARS

Rockstar Swimmer: Christine Baldwin

Coaches Notes: Christine participated in the open water session for swim essentials and our Ransom Everglades weekly pool sessions and has dramatically improved in the last month. She has already improved in just 2 months.

From telling me, “No” I can’t do that, to; “I’m working on it,” to “I can feel the difference”

Yes, this is called progress!

She just completed the Swim Miami Mile and has now signed on to train for the 8-mile Alligator Lighthouse open water as part of a 3-person relay.

Thank you so much, Christine, for trusting Full Circle and our process to break through some old barriers. I’m loving your progress so far and am even more excited for the next adventure with the Alligator Lighthouse Swim.

Age: 54

Profession: Manufacturing (yes, in Miami)!

Why did you choose Swim Essentials to help with your swimming skills?

It was time to revamp my swim stroke and breathing.  I had already had a good experience with Erinne, who introduced me to OWS at a swim clinic in 2009!  I’ve been enjoying it off and on ever since (through 1 Full Ironman, about 4 halves, and countless swim Miami’s – all very slow), and a running injury later…  I figured it was finally time for more instruction😊. And Swimming is so low impact I can take it into my future decades. 


Please share your BIG swim goals:

I’m so excited about exposure to new challenges and taking on the Alligator Lighthouse Relay.  I can’t wait for the beautiful water of the Florida Keys!  

Tell me about your success at Swim Miami 2023:

After only working with Erinne for a few weeks and correcting my breathing, I could actually enjoy the swim course since I was taking on more oxygen. 

What were some of your biggest improvements:

I was far more relaxed and even paced due to breathing properly. 

This freed me up to use some new skills for sighting buoys, contributing to less bumping into others and meandering on the course.   

I still need to work on this, but I look forward to improvements from tweaking other aspects of my swim stroke.

Confession: I’m not a fan of metrics and times since I tend to chase endorphins and the expansive feel of long-course racing… but I’m curious about what using a Coach, swim watch, and training with other swimmers can newly develop.  Trying these new things is making routine training exciting again.

What would you say to someone on the fence about participating in our Swim Essentials program?

By removing the barriers to open water swimming, you can discover a sport that can keep you active into your future decades.  All while getting outside on beautiful beaches and meeting some of the most active, disciplined, AND fun-loving folks around. 

Are you interested in improving your swimming?

Click this link: http://www.scheduleyou.in/5ZIsVaU to schedule your FREE Swim Breakthrough Session today!

Erinne Guthrie has been a USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach since 1999 and Chief Motivating Officer at Full Circle Coaching, LLC since 2010. She has been training, racing, and coaching triathletes since 1997.  She is also a CHEK Holistic Lifestyle Coach Level 3, USMS Master’s Swim Coach, Motivational Speaker, Metabolic Efficiency Specialist, Mom, and much more.

Have You Been Told These Lies About Swimming?

by fullcircle, posted in Blogs, Swim

Have you heard these lies before?

“I’m not supposed to kick as a triathlete.”
“I need to save my legs for the bike and run.”

These lies are simply not true!

Your kick is an essential part of your freestyle swim that you cannot and must not leave out.

The secret is that you need to develop your kick 🦵 and make it efficient, so you don’t waste so much energy doing it!

Most triathletes have terrible balance in the water. 
Are you one of them?

This means you are swimming with your head up and your legs dragging. 

No wonder you are tired!

But it’s NOT from kicking; it’s from a lack of balance in the water and an inefficient kick. 

A good kick improves your balance, so you are not dragging your legs thru the water.

Three things to look and feel for in your freestyle kick.

1) Are you bending your knees too much instead of kicking from your hips?

Most triathletes often run and bike, so they are strong with their knees bent. However, to flutter kick well, you need to kick from your hips, keeping your knees mostly straight, with a whip-like motion from the hips. Ankles need to be supple and flexible too!

2) Are your heels breaking the surface of the water?

If not, then you are dragging your legs…

I use the analogy of a motor boat with the engine on but without enough power to get it up on a plane so it has less resistance and can glide through the water.

When flutter kicking correctly, your heels and ankles should lightly break the water’s surface- like a gentle boil. There should not be big huge splashes or your whole foot kicking the air. Instead, you need to keep your feet in the water kicking the water.

3) Are your ankles flexible and floppy so your foot can provide up-and-down propulsion in the water?

Getting a swim video analysis is the best way to witness your kick inefficiencies and learn to correct them.

Come learn how to kick correctly at my upcoming Swim Essentials Clinic for video analysis and 12 hours of coached swim training in the pool, open water, and online.

I am hosting a Swim Essentials Clinic February 17-18th…
WILL YOU BE JOINING US?

If you are ready to start swimming the right way, now is the time to take charge of your swimming and learn my step-by-step process of learning how to swim the right way.

  • Swim-specific strength and mobility
  • The exact things you need to do with your head, hands, arms, legs
  • Stop swallowing a mouth full of water with every head turn to breathe.
  • No more anxiety and panic while you swim
  • How to conserve your energy

With my step-by-step program, you can guarantee improved swim performance and reach your desired swim goals. Assessing your current skills and setting clear performance goals will provide a roadmap for your training.

It’s an amazing opportunity to be in the water with our coaches and get hands-on instruction to power up your swim!

REGISTRATION OPENS NEXT WEEK!

If you know Swim Essentials is for you, Send me an email at info@fullcirclecoaching.com to get on the waitlist!

Erinne Guthrie has been a USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach since 1999 and Chief Motivating Officer at Full Circle Coaching, LLC since 2010. Creator of the 16-week Triathlon Transformation. She has been training, racing, and coaching triathletes since 1997.  She is also a CHEK Holistic Lifestyle Coach Level 3, USMS Master’s Swim Coach, Motivational Speaker, Metabolic Efficiency Specialist, Mom, Mermaid, and much more.

full-circle-coaching-do-you-monday-your-goals

Do you “Monday” Your Goals?

by fullcircle, posted in Blogs, Mindset

Do you “Monday” Your Goals?

In the history of procrastination, there’s no better time than Monday.

  • “I promise, Coach, I’ll see you starting on Monday.”
  • “My diet starts Monday – after one last weekend of fun.”

Sound familiar?

Maybe this explains why more people hit the gym or the running trails on Monday, after a weekend of lying around and overindulging.

But whether you use the Monday excuse or tell some other lie to yourself, it’s all the same. When you procrastinate working on your goals, it means you’re not really ready to do the work.

Because when you are? You go into immediate action.

Monday’s a liar.

Trust yourself. Begin your work. No matter what day it is.

It just so happens to be Monday! So today is the day to take action!

Set up a call with me to see how I can help you with your triathlon and health and wellness goals!

Erinne Guthrie is a USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach since 1999 and Chief Motivating Officer at Full Circle Coaching, LLC since 2010. Creator of the 16 week Triathlon Transformation. She has been training, racing and coaching triathletes since 1997.  She is also a CHEK Holistic Lifestyle Coach Level 3, USMS Master’s Swim Coach, Motivational Speaker, Metabolic Efficiency Specialist, Mom, Mermaid and much much more.