Teaching technique for all 4 strokes (Butterfly, Backstroke, Breaststroke & Freestyle) is one of my favorite things to do. Not only do I have to work hard to figure out the best ways to break down complex skill sets, but I also need to figure out 100 different ways to explain a single concept. That last part is exceedingly fun…because you never know when the 99th version will finally hit home with any given athlete. This is why I’m highlighting Jette Jensen! She’s been working on updating her Breaststroke technique for at least 3 yrs. And…in the last 5 months…when things finally started to click…she’s really made significant adjustments! Way to go, Jette!
In Jette’s own words:
“My Breaststroke journey began years ago when I started swimming as a kid. Like many swimmers, I was taught the ‘old style’ [versus new style] of Breaststroke. Today I am as a triathlete who mostly swims Freestyle…but my favorite stroke is still Breaststroke.
What I love about our early AM Swim Training workouts is that we work on all 4 strokes (though I could live without Backstroke 😂). In the water, just like in life, we have our habits which can be hard to break. But I finally feel that I’m on the right path towards learning the new Breaststroke.
Every time we do Breaststroke drills/swims I love to fine-tune the stroke based on Coach Michelle’s feedback. Some days are easier than others! It’s tricky because when I focus on the kick, I tend to forget about my arms or my head position. But then, on certain days, it all comes together & just feels right 🏊♀️!
Adjusting technique can be really frustrating. But it’s all about showing up & trying to do it a little better every time (just like life!). If you want to break a habit, don’t expect the change to happen overnight. It requires a lot of work & the understanding that on some days, it comes together & on other days, a bit more patience is required. I’m always looking for a new challenge & this year I might just sign-up for a swim meet & compete with my new Breaststroke!”