Workout Addictions

Former Member over 12 years ago

Started swimming again after quite a few years off. I have found I have developed a strong addiction to my pull bouy which I affectionately call my "diaper"...... (as well as wearing my paddles). I do most of my main sets with them both on. I don't seem to have any shoulder problems using the paddles so often ...... which surprises me. I'm wondering if this is a healthy addiction. Then again, I am old and need my diaper to stay a float easier. John Smith

Bobinator over 12 years ago

I think it's hard to get your heart-rate up or even out of breath while using a buoy and paddles. It just feels so effortless and easy. I guess it makes sense since your legs have large muscles which require oxygen to kick and propel you. I can't imagine you are getting much of a "training effect" or workout using your equipment but if you enjoy it and really don't care about the exercise I'd say go for it.
ande over 12 years ago

John If you like paddles You are an "oar whore"
Former Member over 12 years ago

John If you like paddles You are an "oar whore" It does have a certain ring to it.
Former Member over 12 years ago

Never thought of it as effortless, but I suppose its better than sitting home holding the remote.
Rob Copeland over 12 years ago

I receive much grief when I workout with "real" Masters Swimmers...Real Masters are caring, compassionate, understanding and altruistic. Real Masters Swimmers will give you the suit off their butt and lend you a towel. Real Masters Swimmers will support and encourage your workout addictions.
knelson over 12 years ago

Real Masters Swimmers will support and encourage your workout addictions. ...and make you go first!
Chris Stevenson over 12 years ago

...and make you go first! Sigh, we really need a "like" button on the forums!
__steve__ over 12 years ago

I wear fins most of the time. But then I have improved since I've been using them
aztimm over 12 years ago

Anything that keeps you coming to the pool is healthy, no matter what that other Smith might say. Ha! I swim with the team that the other Smith coaches, and I'm sometimes surprised how much pulling I do. As sunruh described, try doing some fast sets of pulling on tight intervals, and you'll certainly get your heart rate up. I use a very small pull buoy (the other Smith's wife makes fun of me/it), and it doesn't have nearly the floaty effects of a normal buoy. I have 3 different sets of paddles: * TYR Catalyst: when I want to just grind away a pull set * Finis Agility: when I want to work more on improving my stroke for free * Speedo fingertip: when I'm working more on *** or back
sunruh over 12 years ago

I think it's hard to get your heart-rate up or even out of breath while using a buoy and paddles. a few 200s on 2:45lcm or 400m on 6:00 or 800m on 11:30 will change your perception on that! :D like say a set of 7x400m on 7:00, but all have to be under 5:00...2mins is plenty of rest!