MONA – A Biomechanical Model of Optimal Technique
The STR biomechanical model of optimal technique (MONA) is based on science – physics, research, and ongoing testing and analysis. For all four strokes, MONA’s technique minimizes resistance and maximizes propulsion for the fastest possible swimming.
Physics
Every position in each stroke cycle is consistent with the irrefutable laws of physics, including:
- Archimedes Principle
- Law of Levers
- Law of Inertia
- Law of Acceleration
- Law of Action-Reaction
- Bernoulli Principle
- Law of Conservation of Energy
- Law of Conservation of Angular Momentum
- Summation of Forces
Research
Information for specific technique elements was developed and/or confirmed using research findings from hundreds of studies published in refereed scientific journals by international experts on:
- Head and body position
- Torso rotation
- Hand pitch
- Hand path
- Hand speed
- Hand force
- Intracycle velocity fluctuations
- Arm coordination
- Shoulder stress
- Stroke rate and stroke length
- Kick amplitude and frequency
- Bilateral and anterior-posterior symmetry
- Stroke phases
Testing and Analysis
Our ongoing Aquanex testing and analysis program produces synchronized underwater video and hand force data (from tens of thousands of trials) that continues to reinforce the accuracy of MONA’s technique elements. In addition, MONA was the primary instructional material in two published studies that found significant improvements in technique with short-term treatments – one week for younger teenagers and one month for older, elite teenagers.