Breaking down the Start

To continue from today's discussion about starts, I have found this helpful video that breaks down the mechanics of the start. It explains the differences in the conventional (grab) and track start dives and offers some quick tips to remember when starting.

RECAP:

Body Position 

1. Wrap toes around the edge of the block
2. Keep you hips high and hold head in a neutral position
3. Lead forward

The Dive

1. Push off with your hands and feet 
2. Stay in a tight streamline position with pointed toes
3. Aim hands at the flags
4. Kick once you have entered the water 

For another description check out Alex's video : http://youtu.be/OCsQyU4Zops - be aware that he does a slightly more advance dive. Notice how Alex throws his arms backwards to propel himself forward off the blocks for added momentum.

Go Girl!!! Nicolette demos IM for Club.

Nicolette Goncalves - the fastest swim suit in the Mississauga Masters Swim Club (hey - she is on the coaching staff and even her dog paddle is quicker than ... well, anyone!!) - demoed the IM to the club. At least we now know what it looks like!!! Now .. if we could only get ours to look the same!! (play in full screen mode - it is in HD!!)
Thanks Nicolette!!!

(Ed Note: A special congratulatory note of thanks to our most senior member Doug Elsey who photographed the whole IM by holding the camera in his teeth and keeping up the blistering pace alongside Nicolette without use of fins ... and if you believe that, we have a bridge you may be interested in purchasing too!! :-) )

Coach Nicolette smokes 'em!!!

Here is a link to one of coach Nicolette's races in London.
Have a look! (shes swimming in lane 4) she had asked me to remind you to pay attention to her underwaters, and have a look, she doesn't breath on the first stroke!

Way to go coach!