This release is courtesy of FINIS, a SwimSwam Partner. Featured image: Anthony Ervin, Olympic Champion.
Finding and maintaining a consistent tempo while swimming breaststroke is the cornerstone for an efficient stroke. One way to achieve this optimal stroke tempo for breaststroke is to use the Tempo Trainer Pro. Generally, the stroke consists of 3 parts, a kick, a pull and a glide. But how long do you glide? With the TTP you can find the perfect length of time for YOU rather easily.
To start, set the Tempo Trainer Pro in mode 1 at 2:00. Push off the wall in a streamline when you are ready. Upon hearing the beep, begin your stroke cycle, (pull, kick, glide) once your hands are back out in front, do not initiate your next cycle until you hear a beep. Continue this for 50m. If possible, make note of your time. Try speeding the Tempo Trainer Pro up or slowing it down in increments of .05. Your ideal tempo will allow for an efficient glide but also produce a speedy time.
Try the following set using your Tempo Trainer Pro!
12 x 50M
3-w/ Tempo Trainer Pro @ 2:00 tempo
1-w/o Tempo Trainer Pro
I wish I could get one of these to work. I returned 2 and never did get one to even turn on. I’m sure they’re great if you can get one to work.
I have bought many and never had a problem. Great for USRPT.
We absolutely use the Tempo Trainer in this manner and we have seen great results.
Also good to set the Tempo Trainer at twice their stroke cycle rate and do 100 with 1st 50 exaggerating the glide with one stroke per beep and 2nd 50 as 25 build to 2 strokes/beep + 25 hold at 2 strokes/beep. It’s a modified version of the old “2 second glide” drill and we have found it really helps remove the hitch in the stroke when a swimmer pauses/slows their hands under their chin.