Monday 23 January 2012

Swim into the wall.

Yes, we all do it. That last meter into the wall seems really far and we just don't feel like doing it but working on our finishes is really important and can make a huge difference in the out come of a race. Just ask Milorad.

Wednesday 18 January 2012

When to Air Punch

We all like winning, we all like to let people know that we won but when is it ok to air punch?
The extent to which you may air punch is dictated by the prestige of the meet. There are a few general rules that apply:
If you didn't win, don't air punch. I don't care if you beat Michael Phelps and Ryan Locthe but came second. No air punches allowed. If the meet is televised, and if you win, you may then generally air punch. If the gala is visited by an international or celebrity swimmer, you may air punch. The size of the punch is determined by your age and the depth of the competitive field in the particular event. If you are one of a few competitive swimmers at a school meet or your opponents just suck, you may not air punch. It's unsportsmanly and quite frankly, rather lame. If you are from a highly competitive school with a rigorous swimming program you may air punch at a high school meet provided that you are in your final two years. Air punching is a privilege reserved for older swimmers. If you are below the age of 16, air punches generally look silly so just avoid them unless you are at an international or national meet.


The single fisted linear motion. Very simple and conservative but very effective.


The finger wave. technically not an air punch but very classy.


The single fist raise, possibly the best option for girls.


The two handed claim. Reserved for Olympics, World Champs & NCAA.


The double flex. Reserved for world record breakers.


The total domination splash. Reserved for debut title wins and people who beat world record holders.

When in doubt, don't air punch. People will probably laugh at you.

Monday 16 January 2012

Who to watch out for in 2012

Obviously last years NCAA winners, Cal Berkeley, will be a team to watch out for comes the end of the season but the rankings have shifted and several other teams are making big pushes towards grabbing the title.
Arizona are currently ranked 1st but my pick would have to be either the Texas Longhorns or Michigan Wolverines.
Regardless of what happens, things will be exciting.

Sunday 15 January 2012

Friday 13 January 2012

Aaron Piersol & Ryk Neethling

Aaron Piersol was recently on a local radio station (5 fm) talking about a swim clinic he will be doing with Ryk Neethling and the Players Swim Club. Being coached by either of these men would be a privilege but to have the opportunity to work with both of them is almost unbelievable.

If you are in the Gauteng or Cape Town area, I suggest you check it out.

The clinic will take place at Menlo Park High School in Pretoria and at the Val de Vie Wine and Polo estate in CT.
It will definitely be worth the R200.


Monday 9 January 2012

College Swimming


College swimming is just the best. It seriously is the most exciting swimming competition there is, for both swimmers and spectators.

Sunday 8 January 2012

Arizona

Finis StrokeLab

The Finis StrokeLab is essentially a very in depth, very critical online tool where you can submit videos of yourself swimming and receive helpful critiques and advice. All you need is an waterproof camera and a credit card. It really is a great innovation which I don't think has been totally utilized yet.

Check it out at strokelab.finisnc.com

Tuesday 3 January 2012

Michale Phelps is Retiring?

This may come as a surprise to some and maybe not be such a shock to others but Michael Phelps has released an official statement in which he has announced his retirement from the sport after the 2012 London Olympics.

Apparently he is to retire after the games, regardless of the outcome. Whether this actually happens is a different story. Phelps always has been and surely always will be a fierce competitor and I'm sure he will be itching for a good race after a few weeks off.

He will certainly be remember as one of the greatest olympians and athletes who ever lived and competed and his record will certainly remain for many years to come.