Freestyle - Exhale Slowly

While I've often been quoted as saying, "Air is for wimps," the reality is, air is GOOD.  While balance, good rotation, and correct timing are all important to taking in a good breath, air exchange is also a key aspect of faster and more comfortable swimming.

 - Learn this skill from the best, pick up Kara Lynn Joyce's DVD

Why Do It:

Having a more relaxed approach to exhaling rather than blasting air out will help you avoid going into oxygen debt during your swims.

How to Do It:
1.  Swim freestyle like you normally do, but focus totally on how you breathe OUT under water.
2.  Try a length or two in which you hold all your air until you start to rotate to air... then... blast out all your air as you turn for the breath.
3.  Now try a few lenghs in which you SLOWLY let the air stream out of your nose.
4.  Make sure you've got just about all your air released prior to turning your head for the breath.

How to Do It Really Well (the Fine Points):
HUM!   Humming adds an audible cue to your swimming and will keep you humming right along.  And...since it's very tough to hum HARD, you won't be able to blast your air out.  It will keep your exhales nice and even and relaxed.