Olympians are often used as models for performance. However, we have tested thousands of competitive swimmers, including Olympians from a dozen countries, and have found that every swimmer (even the world’s fastest) has technique limitations. For this reason, Dr. Havriluk developed MONA (Modél Optimál NAtación) - a biomechanical model that presents only the positive elements of technique without any limiting factors. (Dr. Havriluk is a biomechanist and the president of STR.) The example below is one position within the butterfly stroke cycle.

The standard format for an optimal technique clinic includes both classroom and pool instructional sessions. The clinic begins in the classroom with a presentation of a biomechanical model of optimal freestyle technique (MONA). A pool session follows with  a progression of exercises that focus on cues to help you swim like the model.