On February 20, I'm hoping to go to my first swim meet......ever! :eek: I swam on the team when I was younger, but I never competed. I'm incredibly nervous already and I have no idea what to expect because I have never been to a meet before. I swam with my friend who is a coach, and I have what seems like a lot of work to do on my strokes. How realistic is it that I be ready by February? Obviously I won't be at the top of the field, but I'm hoping to at least not make a fool out of myself. But what I really want to know is what to expect. How do I train, and how do I taper? When do I start tapering? Do I even need to taper? Any good pre-meet workout ideas? Any thing that anyone can suggest would be helpful!!! Thanx a bunch!!
~Kyra
Parents
Former Member
I agree with Rob. I am one of those who prefers to use the gutter or wall to start, particularly if I'm unfamiliar with the pool, or the starting blocks are too high to get a good grip. I've also found that it's more reliable than a block start as well, so if you're worried about blowing a start, a decent gutter start is better than a 50-50 block start in an unfamiliar pool.
That said, I think girls do use the gutter more than guys, because we naturally have a little more leg and hip strength, and less arm strength. It's a little more comfortable for us, and we can get about the same propulsion out of the water. So all in all, I think it works out to whatever your preference is.
I agree with Rob. I am one of those who prefers to use the gutter or wall to start, particularly if I'm unfamiliar with the pool, or the starting blocks are too high to get a good grip. I've also found that it's more reliable than a block start as well, so if you're worried about blowing a start, a decent gutter start is better than a 50-50 block start in an unfamiliar pool.
That said, I think girls do use the gutter more than guys, because we naturally have a little more leg and hip strength, and less arm strength. It's a little more comfortable for us, and we can get about the same propulsion out of the water. So all in all, I think it works out to whatever your preference is.
