How many of you out there just swim laps? Compared to those who combine some kinda of dry land routine?
I am curious what kind of shape (muscle size, tone, BF%) you guys have. I have heard that swimmers carry more fat than runners. And to be honest, it is rare to see a swimmer with a 6-pack and good-sized toned upper body & legs. Again, compared to someone who runs and lifts.
I was a runner and lifter before I hurt my lower back. I started swimming (and love it) combine with moderate lifting and elliptical glider.
My fear is that I may be forced to totally give up lifting and the elliptical glider if I re-aggravate the injury (has not happened, but you never know with the lower back).
So, what do you think???
Parents
Former Member
To answer your original question, I just swim laps. While I agree that swimmers tend to carry more body fat than other athletes (speaking on a general level), I think swimmers can get more tone in their upper bodies more quickly than others.
When I returend to the pool after an inexplicable 6-month layoff of not doing much of anything, I noticed the results almost immediately. I'm still not at a six-pack, but my shoulders and upper torso have much more definition.
Also, I never heard of back problems stemming from elliptical machines. Is that common? Because they seem wonderful, otherwise.
Reply
Former Member
To answer your original question, I just swim laps. While I agree that swimmers tend to carry more body fat than other athletes (speaking on a general level), I think swimmers can get more tone in their upper bodies more quickly than others.
When I returend to the pool after an inexplicable 6-month layoff of not doing much of anything, I noticed the results almost immediately. I'm still not at a six-pack, but my shoulders and upper torso have much more definition.
Also, I never heard of back problems stemming from elliptical machines. Is that common? Because they seem wonderful, otherwise.
