I just started seriously doing lap swimming and joined USMS at the first of this year. I even did my first swim meet at Colonies Zone in April just to see what they are all about.
I do all of my training alone and I started with doing only 400m total a workout and now I up to 850m. I am adding gradually each month. But I am still the same speed - horribly slow (about 1:00 for 50 free) so I have purchased a Masters workout card.
I figured that I am not getting any faster despite swimming almost every day because 1) I don't know how to improve, and 2) maybe being in a workout will speed me up.
Now I am nervous about 1) showing up and being with swimmers who qualified for Nationals, and 2) having a coach who sees how slow I am.
I have signed up for some swim meets in October/November - mostly 50/100 back, 50/100 free, and 50 fly - and I would like to see my time drop somewhat. Or should I not compete until I see my times in training drop?
Personally, I swim alone because of my job. I have to keep it flexible but I usually swim at 05:45 AM four times a week doing about 2000m. each time. I just can't coordinate with a masters club scheduale.
I really wish I could swim at least part time with a coach. Swimming is not like running. It's a very technical sport and a coach can really help. In the past I took a basic TI course but I was one of the minority who couldn't get into it.
If you can swing it, definately join a group.
Personally, I swim alone because of my job. I have to keep it flexible but I usually swim at 05:45 AM four times a week doing about 2000m. each time. I just can't coordinate with a masters club scheduale.
I really wish I could swim at least part time with a coach. Swimming is not like running. It's a very technical sport and a coach can really help. In the past I took a basic TI course but I was one of the minority who couldn't get into it.
If you can swing it, definately join a group.
