Hello all. I'm not sure there's a "cure" for me here, I just thought I'd share my frustrations with swimming (the small bit of experience I've had) and see what you all thought.
So, First things first, I am not a swimmer. I do not have a swimmer's body. I'm a stout, powerlifter, who these days is overweight as well.
However, even when I was in much trimmer shape, I was never a good swimmer. I actually lack boyency quite a bit. I told a friend of mine how I was far less boyant than the usual person, and they had me lay back and float with their arms below me, and even when my lungs were filled with air to the max, I was sinking.
I'm not sure if this is due to my weight, or having a background in powerlifting, or just a thing that you're born with, but I cannot distance swim because I sink. The only way I can swim are basically sprints, because I have to keep stroking faster and faster to stay above water.
Of course, this causes breathing issues, and water getting into my mouth and throat when I breathe.
I've recently began cardio again, and I've run into some knee issues. So, I've considered getting back into the pool, however, I'm not enthused, given my circumstances.
I mean, it's a furious endeavor for me to swim. I get gassed right away. The farthest I can do is down-back-down-back. I watch these other swimmers just go non-stop, working and stroking but also pacing.
Should I just keep up my clunky, desperate swimming? LOL Have you ever heard of other people who just appear to be human bricks?
You need a coach. Some people have a harder time floating than others but we can all learn to balance in the water enough to swim more efficiently. Once you learn how to balance your body in the water you can learn how to reduce drag and propel yourself forward using less energy. Look for a good USMS program or some private lessons with a coach who knows what they are doing.
Take some technique lessons: find a coach or instructor at the USMS.org tabs Learn to Swim/Instructor Search or Certified Instructors, or Local Programs/Places to Swim or Club Websites. Ask about adult lessons or masters team that welcomes beginners at the pool facility you are currently using, or local colleges, Y's, rec centers or gyms with aquatics programs. If you can't find organized adult swim programming in your area, then try triathlete training programs or ask coaches of any local kids' teams if they offer individual lessons to adults.
You can also read/watch links/videos on swim technique at USMS.org or YouTube, but I would still suggest getting lessons for the individual feedback you will get from the coach/instructor. Good Luck!
You need a coach. Some people have a harder time floating than others but we can all learn to balance in the water enough to swim more efficiently. Once you learn how to balance your body in the water you can learn how to reduce drag and propel yourself forward using less energy. Look for a good USMS program or some private lessons with a coach who knows what they are doing.
Take some technique lessons: find a coach or instructor at the USMS.org tabs Learn to Swim/Instructor Search or Certified Instructors, or Local Programs/Places to Swim or Club Websites. Ask about adult lessons or masters team that welcomes beginners at the pool facility you are currently using, or local colleges, Y's, rec centers or gyms with aquatics programs. If you can't find organized adult swim programming in your area, then try triathlete training programs or ask coaches of any local kids' teams if they offer individual lessons to adults.
You can also read/watch links/videos on swim technique at USMS.org or YouTube, but I would still suggest getting lessons for the individual feedback you will get from the coach/instructor. Good Luck!
