Hi! I'm new to swimming as far as proper stroke technique goes. Learned how to swim as a kid, though.
I'm currently taking the Stroke Introduction (Stage 4) class at the local YMCA. Figured it would be good to start with the basics and build up with a solid foundation from there. There are still two other class levels after Stage 4. Should I wait until I've maxed out of all YMCA offered levels before looking at joining the local Masters program?
So the 10x100 thing isn't cast-in-stone and only a guideline for when you would be comfortable. There are lots of sprinters around who aren't going to want to be swimming sets like 10x100 (you may be among them).
The strength and flexibility from gymnastics will help you with your mechanics too. And the more you swim the more your aerobic energy system will develop, sustaining your effort over longer distances. Swimming is a bit different from other sports - technique is complex using many if not all major muscles, and development of one's anaerobic and aerobic energy systems are key. It just takes time and work in the water. Good swimmers do make it look easy, but they've probably been at it for a long time.
FYI - there is a relatively new training theory that some swimmers are following called Ultra Short Race Pace Training (USRPT). It is not a traditional training method, but you may want to check it out. It involves less distance, shorter repeats (25s and 50s) at a goal race pace time. It's being used to train for shorter events - 50s, 100s and 200s. It reminds me a bit of "Tabata" that was initially developed for training in speed skating by a Japanese speed skating trainer named Tabata, but is now used for training in other sports too. You can search the USMS website for "USRPT" and Google.
You might want to talk to your instructor about training recommendations starting out so you avoid "grooving" bad habits.
USRPT works for longer distances to, as shown by Glenn Gruber's master's world records in the 400 free.
So the 10x100 thing isn't cast-in-stone and only a guideline for when you would be comfortable. There are lots of sprinters around who aren't going to want to be swimming sets like 10x100 (you may be among them).
The strength and flexibility from gymnastics will help you with your mechanics too. And the more you swim the more your aerobic energy system will develop, sustaining your effort over longer distances. Swimming is a bit different from other sports - technique is complex using many if not all major muscles, and development of one's anaerobic and aerobic energy systems are key. It just takes time and work in the water. Good swimmers do make it look easy, but they've probably been at it for a long time.
FYI - there is a relatively new training theory that some swimmers are following called Ultra Short Race Pace Training (USRPT). It is not a traditional training method, but you may want to check it out. It involves less distance, shorter repeats (25s and 50s) at a goal race pace time. It's being used to train for shorter events - 50s, 100s and 200s. It reminds me a bit of "Tabata" that was initially developed for training in speed skating by a Japanese speed skating trainer named Tabata, but is now used for training in other sports too. You can search the USMS website for "USRPT" and Google.
You might want to talk to your instructor about training recommendations starting out so you avoid "grooving" bad habits.
USRPT works for longer distances to, as shown by Glenn Gruber's master's world records in the 400 free.
