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
I am far from a pro but you might try breathing every other stroke from the start to avoid getting so fatigued in the first place. Once your muscles become deprived of oxygen it will take some time for them to recover. Don't let them get there is what I am saying. I think any pro will tell you that you should breathe as often as is neccesary. Most coaches I have heard say that you should breathe every other stroke while flying, Phelps breathes every stroke because he feels he need the oxygen. Now what coach is going to go tell him he does not know how to fly? Moral of the story: Breathe when your body needs you to breathe.
I am far from a pro but you might try breathing every other stroke from the start to avoid getting so fatigued in the first place. Once your muscles become deprived of oxygen it will take some time for them to recover. Don't let them get there is what I am saying. I think any pro will tell you that you should breathe as often as is neccesary. Most coaches I have heard say that you should breathe every other stroke while flying, Phelps breathes every stroke because he feels he need the oxygen. Now what coach is going to go tell him he does not know how to fly? Moral of the story: Breathe when your body needs you to breathe.
