🔷 Unlocking the Power of Data-Driven Swim Training

📺 TrainingPeaks Webinar Recap - links to watch / listen to the whole thing!

Hey Swimmers,

Following on from last week's blog, Swimming by Numbers¹, where I detailed how to train smarter using structured sessions and precise pacing, Dr Dan Plews and I expanded on these ideas in yesterday’s TrainingPeaks webinar.

It was attended by nearly 1,800 people and was one of TrainingPeaks’ most popular recent webinars, so a big thanks if you joined us!

We aimed to provide solid, practical advice to help you improve your swimming while explaining the ‘method in the madness’ behind why our sessions and programs are structured the way they are.

And for those of you with access to the premium blog, you can listen at your convenience - albeit without the imagery - by clicking the article voiceover play button at the top of this blog. This also includes the excellent Q&A section at the end - there were some great questions!

We’ve elected to share the slides too using the link below if you’re keen to really dig into some of the images that we used on the webinar to expand some of our points.

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Bridging the Gap Between Swimming and Data-Driven Training

While power meters transformed cycling and pace metrics revolutionized running, swimming has lagged due to limited technology. Back in 2007, when I attended a TrainingPeaks conference, swimming received little attention. But things have changed dramatically—wearables and swim-specific training tools now provide detailed insights comparable to other endurance sports.

One major breakthrough I highlighted was Swim Smooth’s Stroke Insights℗, which uses Garmin and Apple devices to analyze stroke mechanics in real time. By detecting inefficiencies like over-gliding, crossovers, and stroke rotation imbalances, swimmers can get tailored feedback to refine their technique without always needing video analysis. That said, keep reading below for our take on the commonly asked question,

“Will AI & data-driven insights ever replace real coaching?”

Technique vs. Training: Striking the Right Balance

A common misconception is that a "perfect" stroke is necessary for open water swimming. Some of the world’s best triathletes, like Lucy Charles-Barclay and Alistair Brownlee, don’t have textbook strokes, yet they dominate. The takeaway? Efficiency beats aesthetics—what works in open water isn’t necessarily what looks good in a pool.

Dan covered the importance of structured swim training and how Critical Swim Speed (CSS) serves as swimming’s equivalent of Functional Threshold Power (FTP) in cycling. By using CSS-based training, athletes can improve endurance without unnecessary fatigue. He also explained training intensity distribution, emphasizing that triathletes need a mix of threshold, endurance, and speed work—rather than relying solely on long-rest, high-intensity swim sessions like those in traditional masters programs.

Exclusive TrainingPeaks Integration for EndureIQ and Swim Smooth Coaches

One of the most exciting parts of the webinar was unveiling how Swim Smooth’s 6,500+ structured swim sessions can now be integrated within TrainingPeaks. This allows seamless import of workouts, ensuring precise pacing, effort levels, and technique drills tailored to each individual. At this stage, this integration is exclusive to EndureIQ athletes and our Swim Smooth Certified Coaches.

Additionally, this collaboration sees Swim Smooth sessions being available to follow on various smart devices, without the need to print the sessions out. That said, this particular feature is still in it’s infancy and improvements will be coming down the line. Personally, I still prefer to follow the sessions either on the whiteboard within a Swim Smooth Squad, or via the print out from the Swim Smooth GURU.

Will AI Replace Real Coaching?

A question that often comes up is whether AI and data-driven training will replace real coaching. The answer is a resounding no. While AI and technology provide incredible insights, nothing replaces the experience, intuition, and personalized feedback of a skilled coach. A good coach interprets data, understands nuances in stroke mechanics, and adapts training plans based on an athlete’s progress, goals, and challenges. AI can enhance coaching, but it will never replace the human connection and expertise that real coaches bring to the table.

You can learn more about the process of becoming a Swim Smooth Coach and join us in Mallorca 24 May to 2 June 2025 using the link below:

Key Takeaways for Triathletes and Open Water Swimmers

• Prioritize specificity: Open water and triathlon swimming require a different approach from pool training. Focus on high stroke rate, adaptability, and pacing over a picture-perfect stroke.

• Use data to refine training: Leverage CSS, Stroke Insights℗, and wearable tech to track progress and adjust training intensity appropriately.

• Consistency is key: Aim for at least three swim sessions per week, balancing endurance, technique, and threshold workouts.

• Optimize recovery: Triathletes should integrate swim sessions strategically with bike and run training, considering individual fatigue levels and adaptation needs.

This webinar reinforced how technology and data-driven coaching are transforming swim training, providing smarter, more effective ways to train. If you missed the live session, you can watch the full webinar replay on the TrainingPeaks YouTube channel:

Stay tuned for more insights from Swim Smooth and EndureIQ as we continue pushing the boundaries of improving your swimming!

Your Coach,

Paul

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