Methodology

We Make Swim Improvement Simple, Not Rocket Science

Swim Smooth’s methodology is refreshingly straightforward, grounded in practicality, and designed to meet the needs of swimmers at every level. By cutting through the jargon and presenting clear, actionable concepts, we make swim improvement accessible to all. Our approach focuses on removing obstacles, tailoring guidance to each swimmer’s unique needs, and emphasizing real-world application alongside the pure enjoyment of being in the water.

We Prioritise a Focus on the Basics of Good Breathing

Breathing is a critical yet often overlooked element of freestyle swimming. At Swim Smooth, we highlight the importance of achieving a balanced air exchange—taking in enough oxygen while efficiently expelling CO2. By focusing on a steady, controlled exhale underwater, swimmers can maintain their rhythm and prevent the buildup of CO2, which often leads to feelings of anxiety or panic. This simple but transformative approach makes efficient breathing achievable for every swimmer.

We Recognise That If Something's Going To Go Wrong With Your Stroke...

...it often goes wrong during breathing. Many stroke errors stem from this phase, whether it’s crossing over in front of the head or leaning too heavily on the lead arm. These deviations can significantly impact efficiency. Swim Smooth’s approach focuses on building awareness during breathing, helping swimmers recognize and correct stroke errors as they happen. By addressing these issues directly, swimmers can maintain a smooth, efficient stroke throughout.

We Avoid Overwhelm Through “Cause & Effect” Rationale

Swim Smooth’s cause-and-effect approach simplifies stroke correction by identifying the root cause of technique issues. Instead of overwhelming swimmers with numerous corrections, we focus on what matters most. Through video analysis and expert guidance, we help you pinpoint the key area to work on, leading to meaningful improvements and increased confidence in the water.

All Aspects Of Your Stroke Occur Along A Spectrum

Swim Smooth recognizes there’s no one "correct" way to swim freestyle. Swimming is a balance of movements that vary for each swimmer. Whether it's kicking too much or too little, stroking too fast or too slow, or having a stroke that's too long or too short, we pinpoint where you sit on these spectrums and tailor improvements to fit your style. By embracing your unique biomechanics, we help you refine your technique and enjoy the freedom and flow of swimming.

We Systemise Stroke Correction Using Our Unique Hierarchy

Swim Smooth challenges traditional stroke learning sequences by placing breathing at the forefront. Our 5-part Stroke Correction Hierarchy—breathing, drag reduction, posture and alignment, propulsive efficiency, and rhythm and timing—guides swimmers through a systematic approach to refine their strokes. This innovative methodology empowers swimmers to progress more effectively.

We Embrace Your Individuality Via Our Revolutionary Swim Types Coaching Paradigm

At its core, Swim Types is about recognizing that swimmers don't fit neatly into one universal mold. Instead, it identifies distinct Swim Types, each with its characteristics, strengths, and areas for improvement. No Swim Type is synonymous to a particular gender - it’s just as likely to find an Arnette as an Arnie. So, whether you're an Arnie, a Bambino, a Kicktastic, an Overglider, a Swinger, or a Smooth, Swim Types tailors coaching to your individual style, whoever you are.

The 3 Keys: Technique, Training & Open Water Skills

Effective swim training integrates technique mastery, strategic training, and open water skills. By honing technique, developing strength and endurance through varied training strategies, and transitioning pool skills to open water, Swim Smooth equips swimmers with a comprehensive skill set for any aquatic environment. This holistic approach ensures a balanced and successful swim journey.

We Encourage Structured Fitness Work Through “Swimming By Numbers”

Swim-specific fitness is key to holding your stroke technique over longer distances, and at Swim Smooth, we make building that fitness fun. With Critical Swim Speed (CSS) training, you’ll develop both fitness and pacing skills in a way that keeps things engaging. Take the Goldilocks set, for example—by finding that "just right" pace, you’ll boost your aerobic capacity, sharpen your pacing judgment, and see exciting progress in your performance, all while enjoying the process.

BECAUSE IF IT'S NOT FUN, WHY DO IT?

Swimming isn't just a physical pursuit—it's a holistic experience that should invigorate your body and spirit. Swim Smooth coaches have mastered the art of turning swim training into an enjoyable journey, fostering a positive relationship with the water while achieving exceptional results. By creating a supportive environment, offering individualized coaching plans, integrating variety, celebrating milestones, and incorporating games and challenges, Swim Smooth ensures that every swimmer builds a lifelong passion for swimming.