The old discussion format left dangling an interesting topic suggested by Paul Smith in the rather excellent Distance vs Sprint thread started by Jim Thornton. The topic being that of the mental side of training/competition.
My own selfish interest in this area would be on the mental preparation for 50yds/m competition. Obviously there is not much time to do a great amount of thinking during this event (one of the benefits of 50's) but you need to go into the race with some limited number of important thoughts to concentrate on while swimming. Kind of like 'swing thoughts' in golf (my cross over training sport). As in golf, muscle memory will play a large part in not having to think about everything involved.
I wonder if Paul or any others would care to share what those few key race thoughts might be, from the start, swim and turn through to the finish? And would there be any mental aspects to training for a 50 that might be different from distance training?
Need to revive this thread for one night, ok? Regarding the mental aspects of training - do you all feel that your training is maximized when you train alone, or with others? And if "others" is the answer, is it better to train with agemates - or will any age do? (including 12-13 yr olds). Seriously tempted to join USA Swimming to get a little more challenge than I'm able to give myself alone at 5:30am. Quick Quick - I might join the babies in the morning!
Hey Celeste, it was great meeting you this past weekend! I'll look forward to seeing you at Auburn. :banana:
From my perspective, I feel I would be getting more out of my training, if I trained with others. The closest team is a 50 minute drive each way at night, so it's much more convenient for me to swim right here at our community pool. And, I prefer training in the mornings for several reasons. But, on the downside, I miss out on all the benefits of training with others. I have trained with my part-time private coach a couple of times over at his pool (SwimFest location) after our coaching session and I can tell you those were the best workouts I have had. Having someone in the next lane pushing me and keeping me accountable is a great motivator! The social aspects of training with others makes it more enjoyable, as well; at least for me.
As for age, I wouldn't think it would matter as much ability/speed; being matched up with others of your level, in the same lane. But, having said that, I must say, I really enjoy meeting other gals and guys my age at the swim meets and having more in common with them than, say, a 12 year old!
Check in with Swimshark (Alison). She trains with teens and can give you her perspective on it.
Have fun!
:cheerleader:
Need to revive this thread for one night, ok? Regarding the mental aspects of training - do you all feel that your training is maximized when you train alone, or with others? And if "others" is the answer, is it better to train with agemates - or will any age do? (including 12-13 yr olds). Seriously tempted to join USA Swimming to get a little more challenge than I'm able to give myself alone at 5:30am. Quick Quick - I might join the babies in the morning!
Hey Celeste, it was great meeting you this past weekend! I'll look forward to seeing you at Auburn. :banana:
From my perspective, I feel I would be getting more out of my training, if I trained with others. The closest team is a 50 minute drive each way at night, so it's much more convenient for me to swim right here at our community pool. And, I prefer training in the mornings for several reasons. But, on the downside, I miss out on all the benefits of training with others. I have trained with my part-time private coach a couple of times over at his pool (SwimFest location) after our coaching session and I can tell you those were the best workouts I have had. Having someone in the next lane pushing me and keeping me accountable is a great motivator! The social aspects of training with others makes it more enjoyable, as well; at least for me.
As for age, I wouldn't think it would matter as much ability/speed; being matched up with others of your level, in the same lane. But, having said that, I must say, I really enjoy meeting other gals and guys my age at the swim meets and having more in common with them than, say, a 12 year old!
Check in with Swimshark (Alison). She trains with teens and can give you her perspective on it.
Have fun!
:cheerleader:
