Hi folks,
I've just joined Masters to work on improving my swim technique and speed. Other than general fitness, my main motivation is that I'm a scuba diver and I want to improve my ability to swim through a current when needed, particularly as I'm hoping to make it to Galapagos in a few years.
For starters I'm focusing on developing my 6-beat flutter kick since this generally would be useful in a current, as well as making me a faster freestyle swimmer. I also plan to work on the frog kick.
Since I'm sure there are other scuba divers here, I thought I'd ask for recommendations for other ideas on the most helpful drills, exercises or techniques to improve scuba efficiency & fitness. Have you found any swim techniques that specifically help you deal with currents better, or improves buoyancy control or air consumption?
I have started working with a swim coach but she doesn't seem too familiar with scuba techniques so I'm hoping a few folks here have some ideas!
Thanks!
Bianca
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Former Member
For most divers their only propulsion is kicking, so work extra hard on kicking sets. Bring your fins sometimes and put them on for kicking.
Regarding air consumption, do long aerobic sets - distance freestyle. That's my specialty and I use way little air when diving than people who are way more experienced.
Another big factor is comfort in the water. Both of my daughters have done a lot of sports, but neither is a swimmer. However, they have done plenty of snorkeling, surfing, free diving, cliff diving and body surfing before they got SCUBA certified. They are completely comfortable under water and need as little air as an experienced swimmer would when diving.
picking the proper scuba fins is key.
being a scuba video nut, i like having utmost control and with forcefins, i can actually backup.
however, they are not the best in super strong currents. that's where my swimming background will get me where i need to go.
another big advantage of being a swimmer that also scuba's is that my breath control allows me to run max time...every time.
i always get back on the boat with air to spare, but out of time.
steve - rescue diver
Thanks for the replies guys! I saw another post that encouraged using scuba fins to develop a better kick so I thought I'd try that out. I feel like they are going to make for some quick lengths! When you practice with your fins do you work on speed or kick slow and focus on form?
Bianca
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I am a masters swimmer as well as a Diver. Your best bet is short stiff fins, The old style gorilla fins are a great way to build your calf muscles. Train with those and a kickboard and you will definitely improve. Long kickboard sets will definitely help.Try doing this as a set with a snorkel too. This with help keep your body straight and build your lung capacity. During swim outs from land I always used a snorkel instead of my tank air so I wouldn't suck down all my air when huffing and puffing on the swim out. Hope this helps.
