Hi everyone...I've been more of a lurker around here as I recently started working for US Masters as the web contractor, so I've been behind the scenes.
But today, I got back into the pool for the first time in YEARS. I hadn't done any kind of lap swimming for at least 20 years. I have a brand new Masters group just down the road. Problem is, they don't have a coach yet. So if someone can give me some advice, that would be great.
I did 8 laps (200 yards) *** stroke and thought I would die between each one, but it's a starting point. I would rest for about 30 - 45 seconds between each lap (watching hte clock) and then do another lap. After 100 yards I didn't know if I'd be able to double it, but I did.
Short term goal is to be able to do two laps without having to stop and gasp in between. My mid-term goal is to get my stamina back - I was very atheletic for years and most recently used to do a lot of long distance cycling, so I know it'll come back. My longterm goal is also to lose 50 lbs but know that swimming isn't the best way to do that, but it'll certainly tone me up. I'm dieting and doing other exercise but now I have pulled a calf muscle, so until that heals, swimming will be it for me.
If I had tried freestyle, I doubt I would have made it halfway across the pool!
I look forward to help anyone can offer me. I know I need realtime coaching too but that will have to wait for now.
Thanks,
MJB
I am curious as to why you think swimming isn't going to help you lose weight, I am happy to see in subsequent posts that you are finding otherwise. It's the only exercise I use, and this spring in combination with a low carb diet I lost 17 pounds which have stay off through the summer and several vacations. I am determined to keep the weight off and so far its been easy. Exercise is exercise, expending more calories than you consume however you do that will take off weight. The trick is finding something you love to do so you will keep doing it. For me, that's hitting the pool . . .
I am curious as to why you think swimming isn't going to help you lose weight, I am happy to see in subsequent posts that you are finding otherwise. It's the only exercise I use, and this spring in combination with a low carb diet I lost 17 pounds which have stay off through the summer and several vacations. I am determined to keep the weight off and so far its been easy. Exercise is exercise, expending more calories than you consume however you do that will take off weight. The trick is finding something you love to do so you will keep doing it. For me, that's hitting the pool . . .
