Swim Question: 5 Stroke Breathing

author : Coach AJ

comments : 1

I'm wondering if anyone else has had luck with moving to a five-stroke breathing pattern. Is this okay for endurance swimming? What are its benefits and drawbacks?

Member Question:
I'm wondering if anyone else has had luck with moving to a five-stroke breathing pattern. Is this okay for endurance swimming?  What are its benefits and drawbacks? I am not the most kinesthetically inclined person, and since starting to swim longer distances at faster speeds (yeah!) I am having difficulty managing all of my body parts to breathe every three strokes.

I find I am somewhat more relaxed and natural if I focus on a long slow exhale (I've practiced yoga for years and am pretty comfortable in managing my breath), and only try to coordinate lifting my head every five strokes. I do notice my heart rate going up a little more, but I presume this will go down with practice. Any thoughts?

Answer:

Well, it is rare to find someone comfortable breathing every five strokes. [.....]

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date: November 19, 2007