3 Steps to Problem Solving Skills
The core of great coaching — whether in swimming, sport, or life — is solving problems with intention. It’s not about barking commands or copying drills. It’s about observation, testing, and giving the athlete space to learn.
Here’s the framework I currently use when identifying and solving performance errors:
1. Is it actually a problem?
Not all “errors” are real issues.
There are two ways to look at movement:
They move differently than expected (not always wrong).
They move in a way that reduces efficiency or creates long-term risk.
Many coaches overcorrect quirks that aren’t hurting performance. I’ve seen swimmers with “weird” strokes that work exceptionally well for them. Let athletes be individuals — not everyone needs the same mold.
2. Identify and Test the Root Cause
This is where real coaching skill comes in.
Take freestyle as an example:
If a swimmer is pulling with straight arms, the issue might not be their pull. It could be:
Lack of core tension or poor float mechanics
Limited shoulder mobility (can’t access internal rotation)
Weak leg drive disrupting body position
Here are some simple tests to explore the root cause:
Shoulder Mobility: Front scull w/ snorkel — can they hold the position without compensating?
Float Mechanics: Try bodyline floats or buoy-assisted swimming — if the buoy helps dramatically, floating is likely a culprit.
Leg Drive: Vertical kick, arms up — can they sustain it without collapsing?
Often, it’s not one issue, but a mix. Test before you treat.
3. Specific vs Broad Solutions — Which One?
A smart fix uses both.
You start with a specific solution, then strengthen it with broad challenges so the athlete can apply it across different scenarios.
But here’s the key: don’t just tell them the fix.
Set up an environment where they can discover the solution organically.
Swimming Example
Problem: Pulling with straight arms
Specific Solution: Use paddles (provides immediate feedback)
Broad Challenge: Use a paddle on the non-dominant side and leave the other hand free — forces symmetry and awareness. From there, add variability (distance, effort, tempo) and gradually return to full swimming and race pace.
Non-Swimming Example
Problem: Shooting a basketball with two hands instead of one
Specific Solution: Hold a tennis ball in the guide hand (prevents 2-hand release)
Broad Challenge: Add a defender, use only 1 dribble, vary the distance — game-like pressure and adds challenge to reinforce the skill.
Summary:
Solving problems isn't about barking corrections.
It's about:
Knowing what actually needs correcting
Testing the real cause
Creating an environment that teaches the fix without over-coaching
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