Hi, Sonic here with a very important question: I just recently joined the Border LMSC and I am waiting for my membership card and anything else that comes with it. My question is, what should I expect from Masters Swimming? I am very fond of swimming and have been swimming laps regularly at my local Aquatic Center.
I know that Masters Swimming is open to swimmers of all levels and who know how to swim. I have never competed in any swim meets, but I have dreams of competing in meets soon. And since I've come to the right place, I thought my question sounds appropriate.
Your replies are most appreciated.
Sonic, you will be very glad you joined Masters. Its been a positive experience for me. Set small personal goals and you'll be greatly rewarded. The people you meet are so inspirational and encouraging. When I watch the older swimmers, I see what my future can be and that keeps me swimming. Best of luck!
I was just trying to interject some humor, which I believe is a big part of Masters swimming. Besides, this same topic comes up about every 3 weeks on this forum so I figured I have some fun.
But, in all seriousness, be on the lookout for the wedgie givers at your first meet. It's a USMS rite of passage and one that can leave unsightly bruising. Those poor first timers at Indy, what a sight in front of all those swimmers!
Originally posted by aquageek
Wedgies and athletes foot, at the very least.
. . . green hair, red eyes, and that fresh from the Clorox bottle smell. :)
First, welcome to Masters swimming! It's an awesome group of people from around the world involved in it for many reasons, including friendship, fun, fitness, competition, etc... You can find an immense amount of information looking through discussions on this forum. Your question has been asked many times. Here's a few insights from me:
- Find a team that fits you best. Some are more recreational, some more fitness, and some more competitive. Some are all of these in one.
- Enjoy it. As an adult in swimming, this is something to do because you want to do it.
- Compete. It doesn't matter your skill level. If you can swim 1 length of the pool, you can compete. By doing your first competition, it will inspire you to push yourself and continue forward. Masters swimmers are supportive of all competitors, from elite to beginners. Actually, some of the beginners often get bigger applause then the other swimmers because we all know how much it took for that beginner to get on the blocks and do their first competition.
- Ask questions. Everyone loves giving advice and tales of their journeys in swimming.
So, have fun, enjoy the sport for the purpose of enjoying it, and good luck as you begin on your masters swimming journey.
Thanks, dcarson! that's probably the most mature responce I've gotten all day.
I can't wait to start swimming with the swim club I've joined! I look forward to that day I stand on my starter block and give it all I've got.
All I have to say is: Yay for Lap Lanes! Yay for Starter Blocks and most importantly, YAY FOR MASTERS SWIMMING!!! ...For if it weren't for Masters Swimming, we'd be out of the water!
Originally posted by Sonic Swimmer78
Thanks, dcarson! that's probably the most mature responce I've gotten all day.
We'll have a talk with dcarson and be sure to correct this problem. Sorry for any inconvinience it may have caused you.
:p
Welcome. Swim, have fun, use the search function. Lots of good info. on this site.