Adult swimming may look daunting, particularly if you're abeginner or returning after a long time. But with the proper assistance andtraining, it becomes second nature. You do not have to be quick at first. Youmerely require proper drills to assist you in gaining confidence, refining yourstroke, and getting comfortable in the water.
We teach swimmers of every age and ability at Swim Faster Madison. We know that adults learn differently from children. That's why we concentrate onfreestyleswim drills for adultsthat are easy, useful, and at your speed. These drills address balance, breathing, body position, and the way you move in the water.
Why Drills Matter for Adult Swimmers
Most adults begin swimming later in life or come back after a long hiat us. The most popular stroke is the freestyle (front crawl), but it may be challenging to learn without instruction. Adults typically find it difficult with breathing, timing, or relaxation.
That's why drills are so helpful. Adult freestyle swim drills divide the strokeinto small components so you can work on one thing at a time. They allow you tocorrect bad habits, develop better technique, and increase confidence.
No matter if you want to swim for fitness, train for a race, or simply feel more comfortable in the water, these drills can help you get better one step at a time.
7 Simple and Successful Freestyle Drills for Adults
These are a few of our go-to drills that we incorporate into our adult swim classes at Swim Faster Madison. Each drill is tailored to assist with a particular aspect of your freestyle stroke.
1. Side Kick Drill
What it assists with: Balance and body position
Lie on your side in the water. Extend your bottom arm in front of you and holdyour top arm on your side. Gently kick with your legs while keeping your headaligned with your body. This ensures you remain balanced and flat within thewater.
2. Catch-Up Drill
What it assists with: Arm timing
One arm remains extended in front, with the other arm going for a fullstroke. The second arm does not move until it "catches up" with thefirst. This creates smooth, consistent strokes.
3. Fingertip Drag Drill
What it assists with: Arm recovery
When you recover your arm over water, allow your fingertips to brush thewater lightly. This maintains your elbow high and your stroke smooth.
4. 3-3-3 Drill
What it assists with: Rotating the body and breathing
Do three breaths to the right, three to the left, and three without breathing.This develops balance and teaches you how to breathe on the sides.
5. Fist Drill
What it assists with: Water feel
Swim with your fists closed. This makes your arms and forearms work harder.When you open your fists, your strokes will feel smoother and stronger.
6. Single Arm Drill
What it helps with: Stroke focus
Swim with one arm as the other remains at your side. This practice enablesyou to concentrate on every segment of the stroke and strengthens both sides ofyour body.
7. Zipper Drill
What it assists with: Arm path and body roll
As you bring your arm forward out of the water, visualize zipping up theside of your body. This initiates proper rotation and silky arm movement.
Tips for Adults Performing Freestyle Drills
• Slow down. Don't hurry. Master form first, then speed.·
• Use equipment if necessary. Equipment such as fins or snorkels can assist with drills.·
• Breathe frequently. Exhale underwater and turn your head to inhale.·
• Observe yourself swimming. Utilize video or mirrors to look at what you can improve on.·
• Hire a coach. Feedback will allow you to learn quicker and with less stress.
At Swim Faster Madison, we employ video technology and professional coaching to help adults swim with more ease, be stronger in the water, and have more fun.
Our Coaching Is Designed for You
Our swimming lessons are designed for life. No matter whether you're new to freestyle or training for a triathlon, we develop lessons tailored to your goals and your learning pace.
• Here's what you'll achieve with our assistance·
• Improved technique and smoother strokes·
• Increased energy and stamina in the water·
• More natural, easier breathing·
• Confidence to swim further and feel more confident
Freestyle swimming gets easier and more enjoyable when you focus on the right techniques. With specific drills designed for efficient swimming for adults, you'll improve quickly and start enjoying every swim even more. Visit us at Swim Faster Madison to learn about our private lessons, small group classes, and adult swim clinics. Whether you’re just starting or working toward a personal goal, we’re here to guide you, one stroke at a time.
