I've heard different opinions on tapering. I also know that Sprinters and Distance swimmers generally taper differently, however, is there a general rule that one should use to know when they should taper? And what they should be doing during taper?
I like what DWR had to say. The taper needs two elements: 1) make sure your body is properly rested, 2) getting your body used to swimming at race speed.
The first one is probably the most tricky. You need to have a good feel for what kind of shape you're in now. If you've been working very hard all season, lots of rest is probably your best bet. On the other hand, if you feel like you're not yet in the greatest shape maybe you should push it fairly hard right up until a couple days before the meet.
I like what DWR had to say. The taper needs two elements: 1) make sure your body is properly rested, 2) getting your body used to swimming at race speed.
The first one is probably the most tricky. You need to have a good feel for what kind of shape you're in now. If you've been working very hard all season, lots of rest is probably your best bet. On the other hand, if you feel like you're not yet in the greatest shape maybe you should push it fairly hard right up until a couple days before the meet.
