Why kicking harder is exhausting you. 🥵

Have you ever tried to swim faster by just kicking harder, only to have your heart rate instantly skyrocket?

There is a scientific reason for that: your legs are massive muscles that can suck up to 80% of your total oxygen supply while swimming. But here is the problem—your kick does not provide 80% of your overall speed. This huge energy imbalance is exactly why overkicking leaves you completely out of breath at the wall.

Here is the secret to swimming fast and efficiently:

The Real Power Source: While a 100% effort kick is necessary for an all-out sprint, your most efficient and sustainable speed actually comes from your pull.

Focus on the Catch: When your hand enters the water, that is where your real leverage begins. Think about grabbing more water and generating true power with every single stroke.

Find the Balance: Do not turn your legs off completely! Keep a steady, rhythmic kick, but shift your mental focus to moving more water with your upper body.

This video is an exclusive look at the live, on-deck coaching from one of our swim retreats! Understanding the ""why"" behind your technique is the absolute fastest way to drop serious time.

Want expert, in-person coaching to fix your stroke? We are heading to Turkey for our next retreat! Visit the link in our bio to learn more and secure your spot: hello.myswimpro.com/2026-turkey ✈️🌊