First I just would like to thank everybody that responds to the few posts I have put out. They usually are seeking advice as this one is. Can anyone tell me a good way to increase my speed in back and free. I returned to swimming after a 17 year layoff since high school. I've been working out since the beginning of December and have been to 5 meets. My 100 free is 56.5, 50 free 25.8, 100 back 1.07 and 200 free 2.05. I can't seem to get that initial burst in the first 50 yds of the event. In high school I did 22's in the 50 and 49's in the 100 but now am struggling to get 25's. Is it due to age ( I hope not I'm 36)? I do on the average 3000 yds 4 or 5 times a week in varied forms, intervals, distance, IM etc. Is there something specific I should do? I don't lift weights but could if that might help. Again, thanks for all the good advice>
Parents
Former Member
Hard training- by itself does not give you speed in the water (unless you are talking about 1000 or 1650 free) The stamina training is a good base for a season, but you will not be able to swim faster times until you do some sort of taper- fast armspeed work with maximum recovery time for about 1 month. To me, and most competitive swimmers, you should not expect best times during the "regular season" when you are doing higher yardage. It is only when you taper can and should you expect best times. TRUST THE TAPER!!!
Hard training- by itself does not give you speed in the water (unless you are talking about 1000 or 1650 free) The stamina training is a good base for a season, but you will not be able to swim faster times until you do some sort of taper- fast armspeed work with maximum recovery time for about 1 month. To me, and most competitive swimmers, you should not expect best times during the "regular season" when you are doing higher yardage. It is only when you taper can and should you expect best times. TRUST THE TAPER!!!
