Dryland Resistance Training for Youth Swimmers: Expert Guidance and Benefits

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Dryland Resistance Training for Youth Swimmers: Expert Guidance and Benefits

In the realm of youth sports, including swimming, there has been a growing realization that strength training, also known as resistance training, plays a pivotal role in the holistic development of young athletes. Contrary to outdated beliefs and misconceptions, expert guidance from pediatric doctors, exercise physiologists, and strength and conditioning professionals, supported by organizations like the UK Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA) and the US National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), confirms the overwhelming positive body of evidence for youth resistance training. In this article, we will explore the expert guidance and the multifaceted benefits of incorporating age-appropriate resistance training into the regimen of youth swimmers.

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Choosing the Best Open Water Buoy for Swimming: Key Considerations Revealed

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Choosing the Best Open Water Buoy for Swimming: Key Considerations Revealed

Swimming in open water comes with challenges — visibility, safety, and staying prepared. That’s where a good swim buoy comes in. In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to choose the best open water swim buoy based on what really matters: visibility, storage, and comfort in the water. Whether you’re racing, training solo, or swimming for fitness, the right buoy will help you stay seen, stay safe, and swim smarter. I’ll also share my go-to buoy recommendations for beginners and experienced swimmers alike — plus practical tips to get the most out of your gear.

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Swimming Strength: Unlocking Your Potential with Weight Training

/ Train Daly /
Swimming Strength: Unlocking Your Potential with Weight Training

What should a swimmer focus on building: strength, hypertrophy, or both? And how should time be allocated? Let's explore this topic and discover how weight training can complement your swimming performance

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Animal Flow Workouts: Movements List and Key Benefits

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Animal Flow Workouts: Movements List and Key Benefits

Enter Animal Flow, a modality I have been programming for over a decade. Its the perfect blend of total body, ground-based, bodyweight conditioning, blending elements of mobility, stability, endurance, and power.

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How Often Should Swimmers Lift Weights?

/ Train Daly/
How Often Should Swimmers Lift Weights?

Incorporating resistance training into a swimmer’s program can significantly enhance performance and reduce injury risk. Most swimmers benefit from 2-3 weightlifting sessions weekly, lasting 30-60 minutes, especially in the off and pre-season. These sessions should focus on compound movements like deadlifts, squats, and swim-specific exercises to build strength and power. But how often should you lift weights, and what exercises are best?

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Machines vs. Free Weights: What’s Better for Swimmers?

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Machines vs. Free Weights: What’s Better for Swimmers?

Machines or free weights—which should you choose? While machines may attract gym members, they often limit range of motion and isolate muscles, leading to less effective and functional training. Free weights, on the other hand, allow for natural, multi-joint movements that mimic real-life activities. Exercises like squats or kettlebell swings are far more beneficial for building strength and improving cardiovascular fitness. As gym culture shifts, expect to see more open spaces filled with free weights and functional equipment. Ready to make the switch? Read on to discover why free weights should be your go-to for effective, functional workouts!

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Swim Technique Video Analysis: Capture, Analyze, and Improve Your Performance

/ Train Daly/
Swim Technique Video Analysis: Capture, Analyze, and Improve Your Performance

Dive into the world of swim technique enhancement. Learn how to capture underwater footage, analyze it frame by frame, and receive expert feedback. Discover the right equipment and techniques to improve your swimming skills. Book your swim analysis session for personalized guidance to help you reach your swimming goals.

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Hydration for Swimmers: Can Water Boost Muscle Growth?

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Hydration for Swimmers: Can Water Boost Muscle Growth?

Start with the Basics: What is Hydration?

One of the most common questions I get is: "What’s the best supplement for fitness?" My answer is always the same—water. Before we dive into pills and powders, it’s essential to understand the basics. Why is hydration important? Because without it, your body and muscles cannot perform at their best.

Athletes often turn to supplements to boost performance for short-term, specific goals. But for most of my clients—beginner fitness enthusiasts—their main objective is to maintain lean muscle mass and strength as they age. And the foundation of all fitness success? Hydration.

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Jack LaLanne the "Father of Fitness"

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Jack LaLanne the "Father of Fitness"

Jack LaLanne was more than just a fitness legend—he was a pioneer who transformed how the world views exercise and nutrition. From opening the first modern gym to performing record-setting feats of strength at age 70 and staying active into his 90s, Jack LaLanne’s workout routine and diet were decades ahead of their time. Learn about his early life, iconic exercises, bench press records, and lasting legacy. Whether you’re curious how tall Jack LaLanne was or inspired by his unmatched discipline, this article brings his story to life.

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