Does engaging your core really boost your speed?

If you’ve swum with a coach or an instructor, you’ve probably heard them say ‘engage your core,’ but have you ever thought about what that actually means? In this video, I explore what it really involves and how it can impact your swimming performance.

https://youtu.be/q-HU6eQ84Oo

Nice video, covers all the essential points. Something that helped me build a strong core connection was Pilates. The idea is to move your body as an extension of your core, and a few sessions on a reformer made a big difference for me in the water. It might not be accessible to everyone, but it’s been great in my own experience.

@Ripley
When I was a college swimmer, Pilates was introduced to us as a cross-training exercise for core engagement. It changed how our team trained once we embraced it. I still do it, and it helps me feel that extra connection.

For me, core engagement feels natural when sprinting. After a few hard 100m sprints, my abs are burning. It took me longer to learn to engage my core during squats, though!

Cypress said:
For me, core engagement feels natural when sprinting. After a few hard 100m sprints, my abs are burning. It took me longer to learn to engage my core during squats, though!

Same here. They’re both core-focused, but the way you approach each one can be very different.

As a middle-aged guy just starting swimming for fitness, it’s hard to focus on one thing without the rest falling apart. Get breathing right? Suddenly my knees are dropping. Toes straight? There goes my pull!

Can’t imagine concentrating on my core without feeling like I’ll drown!

@Hayden
It’s a process. Staying focused takes practice when you’re learning.

@Hayden
It all comes together over time. Stick with it!

For me, this clicked along with learning the three-beat kick. But when I started surfing, it really hit home — you almost have to make your body ‘one with the board’ to apply enough force with your paddle. Thinking of my body as a rotating board helped me see the value of core strength in swimming too.