Considering Master Swim, but first I need some advice
Former Member
While lamenting that fact that running and my knees just don't get along like they used to, my sister suggested Master Swim.
So I quickly found plenty of activity here in Dallas, but here's the problem. I'd characterize myself as a "former strong" swimmer. Red Cross Life Guard certified as a kid, which helped me survive water survival in Pensacola. Problem is I never swam competitively, or for fitness. Really all of my water training is survival based with the Navy verses fitness.
I'd really like to learn proper technique for lap training, kick turns, breathing proper breathing etc. Can this organization help me find a coach? Should I join a local club first?
Thanks in advance for any advice.
Dan in Dallas...
Always good too to call around, talk to the different coaches. You can get a sense of the vibe over the phone a lot of times. First time I tried masters' swimming, the coach was very friendly and enthusiastic, told me to come on out and give it a try, and when I got there, he was wonderful--very encouraging and supportive. Another time when I called, the coach was more stand-offish, and I had the sense that he was looking for more experienced swimmers. But that was okay too--at least I knew on the phone, so I didn't spend a lot of time going to a workout that wasn't a good fit. Later, I went to a workout geared toward faster swimmers (though there was a lane for my speed), but by then I had gotten a lot of what I needed by way of instruction, so the workout was mostly just to get the yards /training in.
Good luck and enjoy!
Always good too to call around, talk to the different coaches. You can get a sense of the vibe over the phone a lot of times. First time I tried masters' swimming, the coach was very friendly and enthusiastic, told me to come on out and give it a try, and when I got there, he was wonderful--very encouraging and supportive. Another time when I called, the coach was more stand-offish, and I had the sense that he was looking for more experienced swimmers. But that was okay too--at least I knew on the phone, so I didn't spend a lot of time going to a workout that wasn't a good fit. Later, I went to a workout geared toward faster swimmers (though there was a lane for my speed), but by then I had gotten a lot of what I needed by way of instruction, so the workout was mostly just to get the yards /training in.
Good luck and enjoy!
