Can someone please explain to me why distance swimmers are encouraged NOT to lift weights, or too much weight?
I've read the "do nots" but no one explains the "whys".
Help!
Distance swimming tends to require aerobic conditioning and speed; it's not really a function of power. The extra muscle mass from lifting requires a lot more oxygen, which can be difficult to maintain over a long race. This is not to say there shouldn’t be some strength training but more appropriate for the distance swimmer would be high reps with low weights or specific strengthening for swimming like core training, Vasa Trainers, stretch cords, etc. which will strengthen the lats and triceps and stabilize the rotator cuff. Basically this builds the type of strength you need for distance swimming which is the ability to sustain moderate output for long periods. Sorry for leading the thread on a tangent.
Distance swimming tends to require aerobic conditioning and speed; it's not really a function of power. The extra muscle mass from lifting requires a lot more oxygen, which can be difficult to maintain over a long race. This is not to say there shouldn’t be some strength training but more appropriate for the distance swimmer would be high reps with low weights or specific strengthening for swimming like core training, Vasa Trainers, stretch cords, etc. which will strengthen the lats and triceps and stabilize the rotator cuff. Basically this builds the type of strength you need for distance swimming which is the ability to sustain moderate output for long periods. Sorry for leading the thread on a tangent.
