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  • Swimtraxx Recovery: how you recover, next to how you swim

    Swimtraxx Recovery: how you recover, next to how you swim

    This week we released Swimtraxx Recovery in Swimtraxx Hub. It is free for every swimmer and coach, on iPhone, Android and the web.

    Training is only half the story. How you slept, how tired and sore you are and how you feel decide how well you absorb the next session. Swimtraxx Hub already records the training. Now it keeps track of the other half too.

    What it is

    Every morning you rate five things from 1 to 7: sleep quality, fatigue, stress, muscle soreness and mood. 1 is always the best, 7 the worst. It takes about 10 seconds. You also enter when you went to bed and when you got up.

    Once a week you answer four questions about the past 7 days: injury, illness, pain or anything else that reduced your normal full health. A week without problems is a single tap, about 20 seconds otherwise.

    Built on research with swimmers

    Asking athletes how they feel is one of the best-tested tools in sports science. A systematic review of 56 studies across sports found that what athletes report themselves reflects their training load with more sensitivity and consistency than blood markers or heart rate (Saw, Main and Gastin, 2016).

    Swimming has its own long record. From 1975 to 1986, Morgan and colleagues monitored 400 competitive swimmers, 200 women and 200 men, every two to four weeks through the season. Their mood got worse step by step as training went up, and returned to baseline when the load came down (Morgan et al., 1987).

    The questions themselves come from research with elite swimmers: sleep quality, fatigue, stress and muscle soreness, each rated from 1 to 7 (Hooper et al., 1995). Swimtraxx Recovery asks those four, plus mood, every morning. The weekly questions about injury, illness and other health problems follow the OSTRC questionnaire used in sports medicine research (Clarsen et al., 2020).

    Connected to your swims

    This is what makes it different. Swimtraxx Hub already knows your training: every session recorded with Swimtraxx One, every planned workout, your Load Balance. My Recovery puts your morning answers next to that training load, over 4 or 12 weeks. A hard week shows up as training bars, and you see what it did to your sleep, fatigue and soreness right beside them.

    Your sleep is drawn as one bar per night, from bedtime to wake-up. You see how long you slept and how regular your nights are.

    Compared with your own usual range, not with anyone else

    After 7 check-ins, every answer is compared with your own usual range. Anything outside it shows in amber, and your card says “Unusual for you” instead of “As usual”. There are no population averages, no ranking between swimmers, and no score that tells you what to do. Just your data, visualised.

    Sleep from your ring or band

    Wear a sleep tracker? On your phone, Swimtraxx Hub can read your bedtime, wake-up time and time asleep from Apple Health or Health Connect, so the check-in comes pre-filled. Reading only, never writing. It is off until you connect it in My Recovery settings, and you can switch it off there again. We read the sleep times only, never another app’s score.

    No tracker? Enter your bedtime and wake-up time yourself. Everything else works the same.

    For coaches

    Your team page gets a Readiness tab: who checked in this morning, what is unusual for each swimmer today, their weekly health check and their training load. Amber means unusual for that swimmer, never a ranking.

    You only see what a swimmer shares with you. Each swimmer sets this per team, Shared or Hidden. Hidden means hidden.

    One number from the research: across sports, athletes whose team supported the self-reports filled in 84% of them. Athletes left on their own, 8% (Saw et al., 2015). So mention it at the pool.

    Your data

    Your answers are health data and we treat them that way. You turn My Recovery on yourself, you choose per team what your coaches see, and you can turn it off or delete your recovery data at any time. The details are in our privacy policy.

    My Recovery is not a medical tool. It does not diagnose illness, injury or sleep disorders. If you are worried about your health, talk to a doctor.

    Get started

    Update Swimtraxx Hub, open the settings gear on the Home tab and turn on My Recovery. Your first check-in is tomorrow morning. Swimtraxx Hub now speaks 21 languages, so the questions read in yours.

    100% Free. No subscription.

    Get the app on the App Store or Google Play, or open Swimtraxx Hub on the web.

    Sources: Hooper SL et al. (1995) Med Sci Sports Exerc 27:106-112. Saw AE, Main LC, Gastin PB (2016) Br J Sports Med 50:281-291. Morgan WP et al. (1987) Br J Sports Med 21:107-114. Saw AE, Main LC, Gastin PB (2015) J Sports Sci Med 14:732. Clarsen B et al. (2020) Br J Sports Med 54:390-396.

  • Bob Bowman about “The Science of Winning”

    When Bob Bowman, Leon Marchand’s and Michael Phelp’s coach, was asked about his favorite book on “The Exponential Podcast“, he mentions “The Science of Winning” as his favorite physiological book.

  • Jan Olbrecht talks at ASCA about threshold work

    Threshold work at a young age is typically devastating to the aerobic capacity of athletes. Longevity in the sport can be achieved by working on the aerobic capacity at a younger age. See the clip on the ASCA instagram page here.

  • Jan Olbrecht announced as 2024 ASCA World Clinic speaker

    During this session, we will provide a brief look at the scientific findings to ensure reliable interpretation/use of lactate values in training. Using practical examples, we will also try to keep you away from pitfalls and misconceptions about lactate in training.

    And, last but not least, we will provide some guidelines to use lactate in the most appropriate way, depending on the level of the swimmer and the available budgets.

    More information can be found on the ASCA website.

  • Unlocking Swimmers' Potential with Swimtraxx: The T-30 Test

    Introduction:
    At Swimtraxx, we’re on a mission to revolutionize the way athletes and coaches interact with technology. Today, we’re diving into the T-30 test – a powerful tool for swimmers and coaches alike. This blog will explain how the T-30 test works, why it’s so valuable, and how Swimtraxx is taking it to the next level.

    What is the T-30 Test?

    The T-30 test is a common and straightforward fitness assessment used in swimming. It involves swimming continuously for 30 minutes at maximum effort, covering as much distance as possible. The test is a great indicator of an athlete’s aerobic capacity, stamina, and overall fitness level. It’s widely used to evaluate a swimmer’s performance and design effective training plans.

    Why is the T-30 Test Valuable?

    1. Aerobic Capacity Assessment: The T-30 test measures an athlete’s ability to sustain high-intensity effort for an extended period. This data helps swimmers understand their aerobic capacity, a critical component of overall fitness.

    2. Performance Benchmark: Coaches and athletes use T-30 results to gauge progress over time. Improved results indicate better fitness and can boost a swimmer’s confidence.

    3. Tailored Training: The data from the T-30 test is used to create personalized training programs. By knowing their performance levels, swimmers can focus on their weaknesses and work on targeted improvements.

    4. Competition Readiness: The T-30 test is essential for preparing a swimmer’s readiness for competitive events. Knowing one’s aerobic capacity is a key factor in deciding race strategies and understanding optimal pacing.

    Swimtraxx Enhances the T-30 Test:

    Now, imagine taking the T-30 test to the next level with Swimtraxx. We’re changing the game by using our innovative wearable technology for data collection and analysis during the test. Here’s how it works:

    Swimtraxx Team Screenshot T-30 test

    1. Accurate Data Collection: Swimtraxx precisely captures your every move in the water. During the T-30 test, it records your stroke rate, distance covered, heart rate, and other critical parameters.

    2. Real-time Feedback: With Swimtraxx, you can receive real-time feedback on your performance. Stay in the zone, optimize your technique, and push your limits, all while receiving live data on your progress.

    3. Efficient Analysis: Post-test, Swimtraxx’s data analysis provides insights into your T-30 results. Understand where you excelled and where you can improve, allowing you and your coach to tailor your training program effectively.

    4. Historical Comparison: Swimtraxx allows you to track your T-30 test results over time, giving you a clear picture of your progress. It helps you stay motivated and focused on your goals.

    In conclusion, the T-30 test is a valuable tool for swimmers and coaches in assessing aerobic capacity and overall performance. Swimtraxx takes this test to new heights by providing precise data collection, real-time feedback, and efficient analysis, making it a game-changer in the world of swim training. As we continue to expand our horizons and innovate, Swimtraxx is committed to empowering swimmers and coaches, helping them reach their maximum potential.

    Stay tuned for more updates on how Swimtraxx is revolutionizing the world of swimming. Dive in, track your progress, and discover the Swimtraxx advantage today!


    Track your training with real data

    Swimtraxx One measures heart rate, stroke rate, pace, and more — right on your goggles.

    Not ready yet? Stay in the loop:

  • “I have incorporated this knowledge into Jumbo-Visma’s current training vision.”

    Marc Lamberts, coach of cyclists such as P. Roglic and W. Van Aert: “As a coach I have learned a lot from Jan Olbrecht. I have incorporated this knowledge into Jumbo-Visma’s current training vision.”

    Read more at the magazine Knack (Dutch)

  • Dive into Excellence with Swimtraxx OS 2.0: The Ultimate Swim Data Upg

    Swimtraxx is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated release of Swimtraxx OS 2.0, a groundbreaking firmware update for Swimtraxx One. This free update introduces a range of exciting features designed to elevate your swimming experience to new heights. In this blog post, we will explore the remarkable enhancements brought by Swimtraxx OS 2.0 and how it empowers swimmers to reach their full potential.

    Race Ready: unveiling unprecedented insights.

    Swimtraxx remains the pioneer in swim-specific platforms by offering both live heart rate and race data insights within a single system. Swimtraxx OS 2.0 is fully compliant with World Aquatics Rule SW 15.3, making it the first and only platform to provide this comprehensive capability in-race. With Swimtraxx OS 2.0, swimmers can gain immediate access to a wealth of race data, including key metrics immediately after finishing your race. Through the innovative Swimtraxx Team live mode, coaches and athletes can obtain real-time insights to analyze and optimize performance like never before.

    10x Faster data offload: Efficiency at its finest.

    Swimtraxx OS 2.0 introduces a monumental improvement in data offloading speed. Users can now transfer their swim data up to 10 times faster compared to previous versions of Swimtraxx OS. This significant enhancement allows swimmers to seamlessly and swiftly retrieve their valuable swim metrics, enabling them to focus more on what truly matters—their training and performance. Say goodbye to long wait times and hello to efficient data management with Swimtraxx OS 2.0.

    Trained precision: enhanced algorithmic excellence.

    Swimtraxx OS 2.0 leverages significant advancements in algorithmic precision. Through meticulous training of machine learning algorithms on a larger and more diverse dataset than ever before, Swimtraxx OS 2.0 ensures unparalleled accuracy in capturing and analyzing swim data. Swimmers will benefit from enhanced stroke recognition, lap tracking, and precise performance measurements. These valuable insights enable swimmers to fine-tune their technique, identify areas for improvement, and excel in the water. With Swimtraxx OS 2.0, you can unleash your full potential.

    Free update, available today: our commitment to your success.

    At Swimtraxx, we are committed to your success and continuous improvement. That’s why Swimtraxx OS 2.0 is offered as a free update to all Swimtraxx One users. Our unwavering commitment is to empower swimmers on their path to excellence by consistently delivering the latest advancements and cutting-edge features. Do not miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to upgrade your Swimtraxx experience. Updating your firmware is easy and convenient through the user-friendly Swimtraxx apps. By keeping your Swimtraxx One up to date with Swimtraxx OS 2.0, you can take advantage of the most cutting-edge swim technology available.

    Conclusion

    Swimtraxx OS 2.0 marks a pivotal moment in swim technology, revolutionizing the way swimmers and coaches track, analyze, and optimize their performance. With its race-ready features, lightning-fast data offload speed, and trained precision algorithms, Swimtraxx OS 2.0 takes your swim experience to unprecedented levels. Embrace this free update and unlock a world of possibilities in the pursuit of swimming excellence. Update your Swimtraxx One today and embark on a journey of enhanced performance and unrivaled insights. Swimtraxx OS 2.0 is your key to unlocking your full potential in the water.


    Ready to swim smarter?

    See Swimtraxx One’s full feature set, pricing, and what’s in the box.

    Not ready yet? Stay in the loop:

  • Jan & Pascale Olbrecht in CN Marseille Magazine

    An article about the optimization of training and the collaboration between Jan and Pascale Olbrecht with the Cercle des Nageurs Marseille.

    Read more (in French) about the collaboration in the CN Marseille e-magazine.

  • The road to a high-performance algorithm for Swimtraxx One.

    The information obtained with Swimtraxx One is highly valuable for coaches. The intelligence inside the system provides coaches and athletes with an accuracy down to tenths of a second. In this blog post, we give some insights into how we achieved those accuracy levels.

    Swimtraxx One quantifies 9 parameters essential to monitor in swimming and share them in real time with the coach. First, we measure heart rate, allowing you to keep track of the internal load of the body during workouts. Additionally, we detect what stroke you are swimming, how fast you turn, how long you stay underwater, we time your laps, calculate stroke rate, stroke efficiency and finally we count strokes and breaths.

    Swimtraxx One is created after many years of scientific research. This to obtain the best possible accuracy using cutting edge algorithms combined with artificial intelligence and state-of-the-art machine learning techniques. At the foundation of the Swimtraxx algorithms, there are large data sets that are obtained by multiple sensors we have built into the system. Those “sets” you can take literally as we have collected data while swimmers from different levels were working out. We have been processing the raw sensor data by making signal annotations, performing video footage analyses and using multiple data collection protocols. This has resulted in high performance algorithms that analyze all sensor data in real-time while swimming. Every stroke, breath, and lap Swimtraxx One gets smarter. The data obtained by Swimtraxx One is transmitted to a tablet, giving coaches live insights into their swimmer’s performance. This allows them to fully focus on the swimming technique of their athletes instead of losing precious coaching time while gathering all data manually.

    The placement of Swimtraxx One also plays an import role in the accuracy level of certain parameters. Research taught us that positioning Swimtraxx One on the temple is the best location to measure all of the above-described parameters. Let us take the identification of breathing patterns as an example. When breathing, a swimmer makes a very specific head movement. Where better than any other place to identify that specific movement than on the head itself. This is only one example of why our symmetric shaped tracker is mounted on a swimmers very own and favorite goggles, and thus his head. Imagine we would try to measure breathing patterns with a device attached to the wrist or ankles.

    To end this blog post we have a small disclaimer for you: head banging while swimming might confuse our algorithm and will not be recognized. So, keep that head straight and your technique flawless. 😉


    Ready to swim smarter?

    See Swimtraxx One’s full feature set, pricing, and what’s in the box.

    Not ready yet? Stay in the loop: