Any advice on swim coaches/videos out there?
Doug Stern, New York.
Open Water Swimming, DVD from Endurance Films.
Tom, does that video illustrate any special techniques for turning around(changing direction) at the buoy?
Yes, it recommends appropriate lines to take depending on how fast you are. There is a lot of usable information in this little video. I found it quite worthwhile.
(Making a turn with the buoy to your left)
As I come alongside the buoy, I roll onto my back with a left arm pull that leaves my right arm extended in front of me and next to the buoy. I then pull with my right arm as I twist slightly; at the same time, I roll back onto my stomach and “recover” with my left arm. I’ve now done a 180, I’m on my stomach, and I’ve just completed the recovery of my inside (left arm), which now pulls. Off I go.
Works for me.
To make a left hand turn, use your left arm to grap onto the swimmer to the left of you and pull them under water while pulling yourself over them. It’s easiest to get a grip under the armpit or around the neck and gripping high on the body also helps turn their body in preparation for the next step. After you have passed over their submerged body, place your feet on their torso and push off in the direction you want to go.
Don’t forget to streamline off the push - this will save valuable seconds and aid in your getaway.
Aahh, so , *you’re *the one…
It’s so funny and it’s so true!
Also don’t forget a couple rapid fire breaststroke kicks to the head to initiate a nice break from the person who has been swimming on your feet for the last half mile. As a lifeguard at many local tri races its always nice to sit on my surfboard safely watching all the thrashing and nashing going on in the first 100 yards of a race. The womens 30-39 is always full contact, they seem to strive on staying all schooled up and just windmilling away at each other while clear water in a meter away.