Swim: 3-5-7 Drill

Promotes Bilateral Breathing & Endurance

In the 3-5-7 Drill, you alternate breathing every 3, 5, and then 7 strokes, repeating this pattern throughout the set. Begin by breathing every third stroke, then switch to every fifth stroke, and finally every seventh stroke. After completing the 7 strokes, return to breathing every third stroke and repeat the cycle.

This drill is designed to improve breath control, lung capacity, and mental focus. It challenges swimmers to maintain a consistent stroke pattern and body position while progressively increasing the time between breaths.

Key Points

  • Breathing Pattern: Alternate between breathing every 3, 5, and 7 strokes.
  • Bilateral Breathing: Focus on breathing on both sides to improve symmetry and balance.
  • Consistency: Maintain a steady stroke rhythm and body position, even as breath intervals increase.

Drill Execution

  1. Begin by breathing every 3 strokes.
  2. After one cycle, increase to breathing every 5 strokes.
  3. Finish with breathing every 7 strokes, then return to the 3-stroke breathing pattern.
  4. Repeat this cycle throughout the set.

Progressions

  1. Increase Distance: Gradually extend the distance of each set while maintaining the 3-5-7 breathing pattern.
  2. Reduce Rest Intervals: Decrease rest between sets to further challenge lung capacity and endurance.
  3. Add Speed: Once comfortable with the drill, increase your swimming pace while keeping the breathing intervals consistent.

Personalised 1:1 Coaching

Customised Training with Jen Coppock from £69/month

Want to take your training to the next level with a programme that’s built entirely around your goals, preferences, and lifestyle? I offer 1:1 coaching that’s as personalised as it gets—whether you love training with RPE or prefer structured plans, we’ll craft the perfect balance that gets results and keeps you motivated.

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Due to the demands of my current degree in Sports Injury Rehabilitation, I’m only able to offer a small number of coaching spots each month. This means you’ll receive focused, high-quality attention from me, a biomechanics expert, helping you stay strong, injury-free, and improving.

Jen Coppock
Triathlon Biomechanics Coach
Llangollen, North Wales