TECHNICAL MODEL

Food for thought:

Below is a simple framework for assessing and addressing technique. Coaches who have done their NCCP Comp Intro certification will recognize it from the Comp Intro manual, authored by coach Kristine Chambers (Vancouver, BC). And beyond the Comp Intro sphere, I've certainly worked with many coaches who knowingly or unknowingly employ this model as well.

Simply, you start at the bottom when assessing or correcting technique/skill, and work your way up.

"Core" refers to the entire axial skeleton, from head to tailbone. In this context, the position/posture/balance of the "core" is the key point, not to be confused with 'core strength' or 'core exercises'.  When assessing and correcting technique, begin with the positioning and movement of the axial skeleton (the core). In practical terms, this may be body position in the water, or posture when running.

If you have determined that the core is positioned and moving properly, you can then address the co-ordination of limbs and/or limb segments (timing, rhythm, rate,).

Finally, when core and co-ordination are addressed, work on adjusting the 'components': hands, feet, contact points, etc. 

There are times when the right answer is to alter rhythm/timing (co-ordination), or change the position of a limb (component).  But most often I've found that lasting corrections follow from addressing the core first, and building from there. Conversely, less experienced coaches seem to make adjustments to components without addressing the underlying core issues - usually to temporary effect.

Note that this model can work for coaches with differing views on what constitutes good form and appropriate intervention.  Whether you like catch-up and finger drag, or prefer band-only swimming, you can still assess and correct with this model in mind.