Hello everyone - I am new to this group. I have been swimming freestyle for several years now and really enjoy it. I have worked hard at perfecting my stroke. I know what I should be doing and try hard to put it into practice. I have definitely become a stronger swimmer. I have a condition called "pectus excavatum". It makes my chest look a bit goofy with a depression in the centre and oversised lower ribs (called flared ribs). Some of you may have noticed that Peter van den hoogenband has it. I have read some articles that it can reduce your lung capacity. When swimming freestyle I have to stop for several minutes every 50 metres and was wondering whether this could be caused by my condition. Has anyone had any experience with this?
Regards Johnathon:confused:
Parents
Former Member
Thank you again for taking to the time to provide your advice, 330man. You touched on the psychological and the physical.
To respond on the psychological: -
I don’t let my PE prevent me from doing anything. I have read many articles by men explaining that they avoid sports which require them to be shirtless. I can understand this and while I don’t willingly parade my chest around, I accept they way I look and am really proud and pleased with what I have achieved in the pool.
To respond on the physical: -
In the Summer I swim every second to third day as I have a pool at home. Admittedly it is only 10 metres but I figure that is better than nothing. I swim in the 50 metre public pool once a week summer and winter. I usually swim for about one hour.
I commence swimming breathing every four strokes, then bring it back to a bilateral three and then two once I become fatigued. I normally swim a kilometre.
I have focused on freestyle but am now trying to swim backstroke so I can I can mix things up a bit and reduce the strain on my shoulders. I’ll be happy when I can stay straight.
Keep fit - Johnathon
Thank you again for taking to the time to provide your advice, 330man. You touched on the psychological and the physical.
To respond on the psychological: -
I don’t let my PE prevent me from doing anything. I have read many articles by men explaining that they avoid sports which require them to be shirtless. I can understand this and while I don’t willingly parade my chest around, I accept they way I look and am really proud and pleased with what I have achieved in the pool.
To respond on the physical: -
In the Summer I swim every second to third day as I have a pool at home. Admittedly it is only 10 metres but I figure that is better than nothing. I swim in the 50 metre public pool once a week summer and winter. I usually swim for about one hour.
I commence swimming breathing every four strokes, then bring it back to a bilateral three and then two once I become fatigued. I normally swim a kilometre.
I have focused on freestyle but am now trying to swim backstroke so I can I can mix things up a bit and reduce the strain on my shoulders. I’ll be happy when I can stay straight.
Keep fit - Johnathon
