Training Do’s and Don’ts #5 – Peaking & Taper - Thoughts on Taper, Peaking for Swimming

“Sometimes in the peaking process is not what you do it is what you don’t do.” John Larralde, track coach speaking at GAIN on preparing his milers to win California State high School championships.

What you do NOW is an accumulation of what has been done before

Don’t aim to maintain – stabilize

Female athletes must stay strong – Strength training must be there; it does not take much

This is all about racing your race – the times will drop if you race

Race simulation is crucial – get them comfortable with their race plan

Technique and coordination must be stressed throughout

Touch on all components in the CONTEXT of the RACE PLAN

If in doubt don’t do it. One less rep or set is better than one more

Leave them wanting more

Dryland – recycle through areas that make them feel good – connected, coordinated, and synced. It is all neural not muscular. Cut out legs earlier for Breaststroke & Fly, also for male sprinters.

In this phase the science of coaching takes a back seat to art and feel for what you are doing

Clearly communicate the message that the preparation has been done. Get them looking forward to Racing!

Easy Fast

Focus on distribution of effort

More of the same, rather than different – Just disguise it

Reinforce what got there – “Dance with who brung you to the dance”

Race Ready & Race Hardened