I've been swimming now for about 10 weeks - typically 3X (at least) per week under the guidence of a coach. I've never swum before, but I've been a "runner" (more like a "shuffler") for many years. I'm 49 years old.
My question is this:
How long (time in the pool) should I expect it to take for my body to build enough endurance to start really decreasing my interval times? In 10 weeks I've gone from barely finishing 25yds without exhausting myself, to a steady 1:45 (maybe 1:50) for a 100 free (no flip turns yet - but I'm working on that). I seem to be "stuck" at the 1:45 mark forever.
I know technique is key and I've attented stroke clinics to help, but just how long should I tolerate these pathetic times before I give up and live life in the "slow lane?" I love this sport and wish I would have started 40 years ago, but I want desperately to improve my times. Also it's pretty frustrating to be completely exhausted after only 4X150 free.
Any advise/help would be appreciated
Doug
Parents
Former Member
One thing that happens with age is that your body changes. I'm now a poor butterflyer but as a youth that was my second best stroke. Changes in weight and probably because I don't do more than 200 yards or less usually of my workout butterfly has resulted in this. In a recent meet I swam a 50 meter butterfly at 50.00 seconds. Years ago I remember doing it in 34 or something in a workout. On the other hand, my breastroke is faster now than my fly. I did a 47.12 in the same meet in a 50 meter breastroke. Usually with most people breastroke is not faster than butterfly. But quitting swimming over 25 years ago and physical changes has resulted in this.
One thing that happens with age is that your body changes. I'm now a poor butterflyer but as a youth that was my second best stroke. Changes in weight and probably because I don't do more than 200 yards or less usually of my workout butterfly has resulted in this. In a recent meet I swam a 50 meter butterfly at 50.00 seconds. Years ago I remember doing it in 34 or something in a workout. On the other hand, my breastroke is faster now than my fly. I did a 47.12 in the same meet in a 50 meter breastroke. Usually with most people breastroke is not faster than butterfly. But quitting swimming over 25 years ago and physical changes has resulted in this.
