TECHNIQUE: What Can a World Record Holder Teach Us About Distance Freestyle?
“I think to be honest that's the way distance freestyle is going…” - Daniel Wiffen 🇮🇪, World Record Holder
Whilst the news of Ireland's rising star, Daniel Wiffen, breaking Australian Grant Hackett's 800m SC freestyle world record is some 8 weeks old now, it's the insight that Daniel and his twin brother, Nathan, share on their various social media platforms about how he broke the world record that is probably of greatest interest to us mere mortals and fans of the sport of swimming.
Read on as we look at how:
✅ Daniel discusses that he never uses a 6-beat leg kick
✅ the 2-beat kick is his key to conserving energy
✅ Daniel recognises that the way he moves is unique to him
✅ you can consider what aspects need to be in place in your stroke to judge whether this is right for you
🎯 HOW TO DO IT: We then have a special in-depth 25-minute video sequence that you can use to learn this technique properly if you have the right things already in place within your stroke (cue: it's not for everyone!).
🔥 Daniel Wiffen Smashes Oldest World Swimming Record!
In a breathtaking display of skill and determination, Daniel Wiffen has shattered the oldest standing world swimming record, leaving spectators and experts alike in awe. The European Record holder, known for his prowess in the water, has etched his name in history by eclipsing Australian legend Grant Hackett's 2008 record time of 7:23.42, with an astonishing 7:20.46 finish.
The magnitude of Wiffen's achievement is underscored by the fact that Hackett had held the world record since August 2001, a mere two weeks after Wiffen's birth. This symbolic passing of the torch from one swimming great to another adds layers of significance to Wiffen's remarkable feat.
Announcing Wiffen's triumph, Swim Ireland 🇮🇪 expressed their admiration, stating, "Wiffen, the European Record holder, took almost three seconds off Australian legend Grant Hackett’s 2008 time of 7:23.42, touching the wall in an incredible 7:20.46."
"That's just the way I move…!"
However, what makes Wiffen's accomplishment even more compelling is the insight he and his brother Nathan offer on their YouTube channel regarding Daniel’s technique. In a video shared by the Wiffen brothers (and later remixed by us to highlight this specific point here), they delve into the nuances of Daniel's kick, shedding light on the use of a 2-beat kicking style, high stroke rate, and rhythm, particularly in distance freestyle swimming.
The 2-beat kick, as explained by the Wiffens, demands certain prerequisites for effectiveness. A swimmer must possess:
a strong catch technique
continuous arm movement without pause
a rhythmic stroke with hip-driven kicking
good natural buoyancy
While this style may not be suitable for every swimmer, those who excel in these areas may find the 2-beat kick to be a valuable addition to their repertoire.
The Wiffens remark how it's a style that's being rapidly adopted by many of the world's best distance freestylers as we've discussed a LOT over the years and as featured recently in our analysis of Ahmed Hafnaoui's World Championship win in the 1500m freestyle here.
Through his record-breaking performance and insightful analysis, Daniel Wiffen has not only left a mark on the swimming world but has also provided inspiration for aspiring swimmers worldwide. His dedication to his craft and willingness to share his expertise serve as a beacon for those striving for excellence in the pool.
In celebrating Wiffen's achievement, let us not only marvel at his speed but also appreciate the technical mastery and strategic insights that underpin his success. With each stroke, Wiffen exemplifies the relentless pursuit of greatness, reminding us all of the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to chase their dreams in the water.
Thank you, Daniel Wiffen, for your unwavering commitment to the sport and for igniting the spirit of possibility within us all.
Here's how to develop this in your own stroke:
Use our simple Step-by-Step process to learn how to develop the 2-beat kick in your own stroke - as used by “Mega Megan” to shave off nearly 40s per 100m to complete the 20km Rottnest Channel Swim:
Click the button below to kick like Mega Megan:
