From Slow to Smooth: Improve Your Breaststroke Technique

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From Slow to Smooth: Improve Your Breaststroke Technique

Breaststroke can feel awkward and slow - but with the right technique, it becomes one of the most efficient strokes in swimming. In this guide, you'll learn how to refine your breaststroke kick, streamline your body position, and master stroke timing for smoother, faster swims. With expert coaching tips, in-pool drills, dryland exercises, and a complete 14-day training plan, this article is your roadmap to transforming your stroke. Whether you're a beginner or a competitive swimmer, it’s time to go from slow to smooth - one kick at a time.

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Why Do Swimmers Wear Swim Caps? And the Best Types to Choose

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Why Do Swimmers Wear Swim Caps? And the Best Types to Choose

Why do swimmers wear swim caps - and which type is best for you? Whether you’re racing, training, or just swimming for fitness, the right cap can boost performance, protect your hair, and keep you focused. In this article, Coach Dan Daly breaks down the benefits of swim caps, how to choose between silicone, latex, and fabric, and how to properly wear one. With step-by-step videos and product recommendations, you’ll be ready to make a smart, swim-savvy choice.

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What to Do If You Get a Cramp While Swimming

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What to Do If You Get a Cramp While Swimming

Cramps during swimming can stop your workout cold—but they don’t have to. Whether you struggle with foot cramps while swimming, calf cramps, or sudden toe spasms, this guide breaks down the causes and gives you practical, proven strategies to stop them. Learn what to do if a cramp strikes mid-swim, how to strengthen the right muscles on land, and how to boost mobility for smoother performance. Plus, watch two videos with exercises and foam rolling techniques to help you stay strong, mobile, and cramp-free in the 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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Join Me in the Open Water: Open Water Swimming Events 2025

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Join Me in the Open Water: Open Water Swimming Events 2025

Swim with Coach Dan Daly for a season of unforgettable races across NYC and the Northeast — including the UrbanSwim: PRIDE and Liberty to Freedom swims, Lake George, and a solo 28.5-mile Manhattan Island Marathon. Whether you’re new to open water or looking to level up, these events offer the perfect mix of challenge, community, and coaching support. Explore the full race calendar, get inspired by past performances, and find out how to train smart and swim strong this season.

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Sculling Swimming Drills: How to Build Feel for the Water

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Sculling Swimming Drills: How to Build Feel for the Water

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.

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Vasa Trainer Pro Workouts: How to Boost Swim Strength and Endurance

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Vasa Trainer Pro Workouts: How to Boost Swim Strength and Endurance

Struggling with swim endurance and strength? The Vasa Trainer Pro is the ultimate dryland tool to boost power, technique, and stamina outside the pool. In this guide, I’ll share proven Vasa Trainer workouts that I use with my athletes to develop swim-specific strength, improve efficiency, and build lasting endurance. Whether you're a competitive swimmer, triathlete, or fitness enthusiast, these structured workouts will help you train smarter. Plus, I’ll cover common mistakes to avoid and the best programming strategies for maximum results. Start training smarter today! Read more.

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Best Books About Swimming for Swimmers

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Best Books About Swimming for Swimmers

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.

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How to Swim Long Distance with Better Technique

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How to Swim Long Distance with Better Technique

Mastering long-distance swimming isn’t just about endurance—it’s about technique, pacing, and mental strength. As a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, I’ve coached athletes from local events to Olympic trials, refining their stroke efficiency, breathing patterns, and training plans. In this guide, I’ll share expert tips on improving body position, increasing distance per stroke, and building stamina through structured workouts. Whether you're preparing for a 5K swim or just want to swim farther with less effort, these proven strategies will help you conquer long-distance swimming with confidence.

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