In a completely opposite fashion from how we reduced the stroke rate for freestyle, we'll use breaststroke to show how to play with increased stroke rate. Increasing stroke rate is necessary for sprinting, or reaching that next level of flow. While most people apply the same force on every stroke, this technique requires the swimmer maintain the same speed while the stroke rate is manipulated.
With the water speed set at a consistent pace, the swimmer is asked to increase her stroke rate, while avoiding climbing up the pool. This means she'll have to trust the rotation and rhythm of the body, rather than just the power of the arms and legs... almost letting go of the water, and allowing the arms and legs to go along for the ride. Once a solid rhythm, with good flow is achieved... THEN you can start to play with the water speed to match that rhythm. Increasing the water speed to a more goal oriented rate, so the swimmer can see how the increased tempo can aid in maintaining a faster pace. We started the water speed at a 1:10 / 100 yard rate. After a good rhythm and understanding was established, we maintained the stroke rate, but dropped the water speed to 1:05 / 100 yard rate. After we allowed the swimmer to play at that speed for a bit, we set the speed of the pool to 1:00 / 100 yard rate without telling the swimmer.
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