![]() However, it is hard to reach the same tempo for breaststroke and butterfly in comparison to long axis strokes. When it comes to the type of race, the shorter the distance, a higher tempo is required to swim. Freestyle: breathing, finish of the stroke, kicking.Breaststroke: gliding time, finish of the stroke, arms recovery, kicking.Backstroke: body rotation, depth of the stroke.Butterfly: body undulation, arms recovery, gliding. ![]() According to Sokolovas, these are the most important: Tempo is key in all four strokes and distances, yet there are specific elements that pertain to each stroke. It is important for swimmers and coaches to focus on what works better for each athlete depending on the length of their swim, height, and level. “Keeping the same tempo during the race and even during each lap is a more energy-efficient way to race,” says Sokolovas. On the other hand, less experienced swimmers often start with a very high tempo at the beginning of their race, losing tempo in the middle and sometimes regaining tempo at the end of the race. They can also hold a lower tempo with a longer distance per stroke (dps). While moving at a fast pace, elite swimmers can keep a similar tempo throughout their races. However, the optimal tempo doesn’t necessarily have to be the maximum stroke rate. Finding an adequate tempo creates an optimal rhythm, which is achieved by having an appropriate timing of the body’s actions. Tempo and rhythm are directly proportional. “ For example, what is the best timing of breath in freestyle? Should swimmers start head rotation for the breathing at the beginning or in the middle of the stroke? That relates to timing,” explains Sokolovas. Regarding timing, the Oxford’s definition says that it is “the performance of an action at, or according to, a specific time, and related senses.” Sokolovas says it is related to the breathing pattern, relative to the kick or stroke rate. The Oxford English Dictionary defines tempo as the “ The rate of motion or activity ( of someone or something),” and rhythm itself as “ senses relating to a regular repeated pattern of sound or movement.” Considering the official meaning of these terms, former biomechanic doctor Genadijus Sokolovas defines tempo in swimming as “the number of stroke cycles per minute” and rhythm as “relative to the stroke technique”, such as the butterfly rhythm that i ncludes one pull and two kicks. Yet, have you ever thought of focusing on your tempo, rhythm or timing specifically? We might think of these as synonyms, but the reality is that they are three different concepts that simply go hand in hand. We can focus on a single aspect of our swim such as pulling, kicking, or breathing. There are countless combinations of sets and drills that help swimmers enhance their overall training and performance. Tempo and Rhythm: A Swimmer’s Secret Weapons
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