Individual Medley Swimming: Stroke Order, Turns, and Training Tips

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Individual Medley Swimming: Stroke Order, Turns, and Training Tips

The individual medley (IM) is one of swimming’s toughest and most rewarding events. Unlike single-stroke races, medley swimming tests your mastery across butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke, and freestyle — plus the precision of three transitions. In this article, I break down the official individual medley order, explain how it differs from the medley relay order, and share coaching tips for smoother turns and smarter training. Whether you’re chasing your next PR or curious about the 200m individual medley world record, you’ll learn how to build complete swimming performance and race the IM with more confidence.

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

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

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.

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How Many Laps Is a Mile in Swimming? Pool Sizes Explained

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How Many Laps Is a Mile in Swimming? Pool Sizes Explained

How many laps make a mile in swimming? It’s a common question – and the answer depends on your pool size, and what defines a “mile” in competitive pool swimming. In this guide, Coach Dan Daly breaks down the difference between a land mile, a swimming mile, and how to convert those into laps in 25-yard, 25-meter, and 50-meter pools. You’ll also learn how to track your laps more effectively using swim watches and lap counters, plus get a sample mile swim workout. Whether you’re a beginner, triathlete, or distance swimmer, this article gives you the clarity you need to train smarter and swim stronger - length by length, lap by lap.

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Battle Ropes Workout: 4 Dynamic Drills to Build Strength & Burn Fat

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Battle Ropes Workout: 4 Dynamic Drills to Build Strength & Burn Fat

Battle ropes aren’t just for CrossFit gyms - they’re one of the most effective tools for building full-body conditioning and power. In this article, I’ll walk you through what battle ropes are, what muscles they work, and why they’re ideal for swimmers. You’ll learn four battle rope exercises I’ve used in dryland sessions to help swimmers develop power, coordination, and rhythm. Whether you're new to ropes or looking to level up your dryland training, these dynamic drills will help you increase your endurance and power on land or water..

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Feel the Surge: What Propulsion in Swimming Really Means

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Feel the Surge: What Propulsion in Swimming Really Means

Want to swim faster without just working harder? It all comes down to mastering propulsion. In this guide, Coach Dan Daly breaks down the science behind swimming propulsion, the difference between drag and lift forces, and how to improve your stroke for maximum speed. With targeted drills, smart use of training tools, and integrated dryland exercises, you’ll learn how to generate more forward motion with every stroke. Whether you're in the pool or open water, it’s time to feel the surge - and move smarter.

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How to Swim Faster: 9 Proven Tips to Improve Your Speed

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How to Swim Faster: 9 Proven Tips to Improve Your Speed

Looking to improve your swimming speed and technique? In this article, Coach Dan Daly shares nine proven tips on how to swim faster and get better at swimming. From mastering your technique and building a better feel for the water to practicing race pace and focusing on recovery, these tips are designed to help swimmers of all levels achieve their goals. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned athlete, you'll find actionable advice to enhance your efficiency, build strength, and become a faster swimmer. Read on to dive into faster swimming!

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Best Swim Lap Counter Devices for Swimmers

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Best Swim Lap Counter Devices for Swimmers

Lost in the rhythm of your stroke, have you ever suddenly blanked on your lap count? You're not alone. As a swim coach, I've seen this mental hiccup affect everyone from beginners to elite competitors. When you're focused on technique, breathing, and pace, your brain shouldn't waste energy on counting. A quality swim lap counter doesn't just track numbers—it liberates your mind to concentrate on what truly matters: becoming a stronger, more efficient swimmer.

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Top 7 Supplements for Swimming: Boost Performance, Endurance, and Recovery Safely

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Top 7 Supplements for Swimming: Boost Performance, Endurance, and Recovery Safely

Unlock your swimming potential with the right supplements. From creatine to beet juice, discover how these top 7 performance boosters can enhance power, endurance, and recovery. Learn what works, how to use them, and what to look for in safe supplements to support your training, while keeping nutrition and load management as your foundation.

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Is Swimming Hard? Breaking Down the Challenges

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Is Swimming Hard? Breaking Down the Challenges

Swimming challenges both the body and mind, making it one of the most rewarding sports. From mastering technical strokes to building endurance, each step offers unique benefits. Whether tackling open water or pool training, swimming improves strength, cardiovascular health, and mental focus. Learn why swimming is a rewarding challenge and how to make progress with the right guidance and resources. Ready to dive in? Discover more at Train Daly.

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