The more I swim, the more muscle mass I keep putting on. I have low body fat, so it's not a fat concern. My only events are swimming and running, I don't weight train, bike, etc., so there isn't something else that is causing me to bulk up. The muscle mass gain is helping my speed in the pool, but is noticeably slowing down my running. Is it possible to make your existing muscles more efficient? Any thoughts?
Running has the potential to cause an underweight condition. Maybe by replacing some of your training with swimming you may be moving closer to your ideal body mass
I agree with Lui. Swimming isn't going to bulk you up. Maybe tone and give you better definition, but a lot of that has to do with burning fat and uncovering your muscles. How are you judging your increased muscle mass? What is your diet like? I'd make sure you have been eating a proper diet and not consuming too many calories as that can lead to your weight creeping up. Are you running after swimming? When I run after I have already swam I am noticeably slower. You may just need more time for your body to recover. Also, I'd make sure you are getting enough carbs to fuel your cardio. If recovery is the issue you could try some supplements such as whey, glutamine, beta-alanine, amino acids. These have helped me recover faster and be less sore.
The more I swim, the more muscle mass I keep putting on. I have low body fat, so it's not a fat concern. My only events are swimming and running, I don't weight train, bike, etc., so there isn't something else that is causing me to bulk up. The muscle mass gain is helping my speed in the pool, but is noticeably slowing down my running. Is it possible to make your existing muscles more efficient? Any thoughts?
What type of swimming are you doing - more sprint work or long distance training? Have you just started swimming or has this been a long-term increase?
Is it possible to make your existing muscles more efficient? Any thoughts?
Running and swimming are somewhat diametrically opposed to one another. The muscle action is different. Usually it's the other way around where running can put a damper on your swimming in that the ankles get a little tighter (which is not so great for your kick).
If you keep running though, it's a great fat burner. Most swimmers carry a thin layer of insulation which develops from the body's natural response to staying warm....all depending on how cool the water is.
Maybe you should choose to focus on being a better swimmer during the winter season, and then favor the heavier road work during the summer months? In most of the country, swimming competition seems to be seasonally inclined from the Fall through Spring time.
The mix of running & swimming will help you in the long run. The impact & shock of running is offset by the extra force of the water & the flex in swimming will be good for your legs as well.
