More Kick Talk: Ankles, Quads, and the Smiley Face Line -#164

Tri Swim Coach Podcast

Back for round two, and yes—we’re still talking about your kick. Because guess what? It’s still not working the way you think it is.

In this episode, we’re diving deeper into flutter kick mechanics: tight ankles, sleepy hamstrings, and the mysterious “smiley face line” under your tush (you’ll know it when you feel it). We’re breaking down why your ankles matter more than your effort, how to actually use your cool down for something other than staring at the bottom of the pool, and why your legs might be sinking because… you’re literally pushing them down. Yeah. That’s happening.

There’s also a surprise detour into stream-of-consciousness novels, Upton Sinclair’s The Jungle, and a heated debate over Bravo’s best trash TV. You didn’t ask for that, but you’re getting it anyway.

This is the kicking episode that gets into the weeds—in a good way. If your freestyle still feels like a fight, or you just want one good thing to focus on next time you swim, this one’s got it.

Sponsor

🏊‍♂️ Big thanks to SwimBox – where your swimming gets better and no one judges your feet. 👉 https://www.theswimbox.com

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[00:00] VHS camcorder jokes, podcast video experiments & solo podcasting struggles

[04:27] A listener comment sparks more kick talk: quads vs. hamstrings

[07:52] “My legs feel like they’re sinking” — breaking down why

[10:43] The “smiley face line” under your tush and how to use it

[13:30] Common kick mistakes: bicycle kick, knee-down, locked ankles

[18:11] Ankles matter: how flexion is killing your kick (and how to fix it)

[21:08] Pro tip: draw the alphabet with your ankles

[24:15] Tight hips, sports crossover, and how it shows up in the water

[28:06] Triathlete tip: find what part of your leg gets tired first

[31:00] “Big toe rope” visualization from client Pete – great for alignment

[34:40] Cool downs as sneaky technique work – stop sleeping on them

[37:55] Warm down vs. cool down – a nerdy debate

[41:08] Why you should always swim first before running or lifting

[45:33] Literature detour: Mrs. Dalloway, The Hours, and The Jungle

[49:50] Bravo TV, Vanderpump on the trainer, and guilty pleasures

[54:20] Wrapping it up: thoughts for your next swim & being mentally present