October 15, 2025

What Is a Flutter Kick? Technique, Muscles Worked, and Benefits

October 15, 2025/ Dan Daly

The flutter kick looks simple, but mastering it can transform your swimming. Done correctly, it lifts your hips, reduces drag, and adds real propulsion to your stroke. Out of the pool, the same motion builds stronger abs and hip stability. In this guide, I’ll walk you through proper flutter kick form, muscles worked, and key drills to make your kick more efficient – whether you’re chasing faster race times or a stronger core.

October 12, 2025

Dryland Swim Cords: The Best Stretch Cord Workouts for Swimmers

October 12, 2025/ Dan Daly

Dryland swim cords are one of the most effective tools for building swimming strength and refining technique outside the pool. In this guide, I share my top cord drills for freestyle and butterfly, complete with videos to follow along. You’ll learn how to set up cords properly, avoid common mistakes, and use them to reinforce your stroke mechanics. Whether you’re a beginner or a competitive swimmer, these workouts will make your time in the water more efficient.

May 13, 2025

Sculling Swimming Drills: How to Build Feel for the Water

May 13, 2025/ Dan Daly

Struggling to feel the water, even with solid strength and training? Sculling may be the missing link. In this guide, Coach Dan Daly breaks down what sculling in swimming really is, why it matters, and how to build it into your weekly routine. You'll learn proven sculling swimming drills — from front scull to catch scull — and get practical tips to improve your body position, stroke connection, and sensory awareness in the water. Whether you’re a high school swimmer or a masters athlete, it’s time to reconnect with your stroke.

April 30, 2025

Best Books About Swimming for Swimmers

April 30, 2025/ Dan Daly

Looking to sharpen your swim technique, build mental strength, or simply fall back in love with the water? This curated list of the best books about swimming covers everything from Olympic-level training to inspiring swimmer stories and cutting - edge coaching methods. Whether you're a competitive swimmer, a curious beginner, or a coach looking for fresh insights, these swimming books deliver motivation and practical takeaways alike. Dive in and discover new ways to elevate your performance - in the pool and beyond.

April 24, 2025

Perfect Your Backstroke Flip Turn: A Coach's Proven System

April 24, 2025/ Dan Daly

The backstroke flip turn isn't just a technical skill – it's often the difference between good and great in competitive swimming. In my 15 years of coaching, I've found the most common issue isn't physical – it's psychological. Fear of misjudging the wall or disorientation during rotation causes hesitation, robbing swimmers of efficiency. The good news? I've never met a swimmer who couldn't master this technique with the right approach. My 4-phase method breaks down this complex movement into manageable steps that build confidence and speed simultaneously.

March 05, 2025

What to Eat Before a Swim Meet: The Best Pre-Race Foods

March 05, 2025/ Dan Daly

Choosing the right foods before a swim meet can make a big difference in your performance. Eating the best pre-race meals ensures you have the energy and stamina to swim strong. From slow-digesting carbohydrates to lean proteins, discover which foods to include in your diet to fuel your body efficiently. Proper pre-swim nutrition can help you feel your best in the water, so don't leave your meal plan to chance. Ready to dive in and learn more? Read the article.

February 18, 2025

How to Breathe While Swimming Freestyle? Tips to Stay Confident

February 18, 2025/ Dan Daly

Freestyle swimming breathing can be one of the most challenging skills to master. Learning proper breathing techniques not only improves your rhythm and endurance but also helps you stay relaxed and efficient in the water. From head positioning and timing your breaths to overcoming common issues like water inhalation or feeling out of breath, this guide provides actionable tips for swimmers of all levels. With practice and drills, you can make freestyle breathing second nature and take your swimming to the next level. Read the full article.

October 02, 2024

Top 15 Youth U.S. Swim Teams & How Personalized Coaching Fills Performance Gaps for Youth Swimmers

October 02, 2024/ Train Daly, LLC/ Dan Daly

For elite youth swimmers aiming for NCAA or national team success, finding the right swim club can be challenging. This blog highlights the top 15 U.S. swim programs and explores how personalized coaching, including technique analysis, dryland programming, and sports psychology, can supplement team training and fill gaps in performance development. Learn how Train Daly coaching helps swimmers reach their full potential, even in the most competitive environments.

September 13, 2024

A Step-by-Step Guide to Researching and Scheduling Your First English Channel Swim

September 13, 2024/ Dan Daly

Dreaming of crossing the English Channel? Our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know—from choosing the right pilot to mastering cold water endurance. Learn how to boost your chances of success with expert coaching in swim technique, programming, and strength training at TrainDaly.com. Whether you’re a first-time marathon swimmer or a seasoned athlete, this step-by-step resource will prepare you for one of the toughest challenges in open water swimming.

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