I am a masters track sprinter who has been having lower back troubles for the last year. I am 41 year old male.
I have been swimming to give my back time to heal. I have been swimming for about a month.
This week I swam 800 yards in a pool (100ft long) in 16 minutes. Is this any good? Never swam competatively in my life.
I have some real disc problems and I was hoping I could someday be competative in the water if I can't run anymore. I have to be honest, I love running way more than swimming, but I really miss the competition part.
What should I be doing as a rookie if I want to swim the 50 and the 100? What kind of interval training? or should I just be doing conditioning and technique?
Parents
Former Member
Three years ago I had surgery to repair a herniated disk, I strongly urge you to see a Dcotor and get a MRI (x-rays won't reveal the extent of the problem). I too went years off and on injuring myself--usually it would manifest as stiff hips or a weak right knee and leg. Personally, I think you should get it checked out before doing any type of competition. And if it comes to surgery, it's all done with lasers and your life will improve right away (I've also known runners and swimmers that had herniated disks in their necks and the surgery was an immediate relief). Remember if you are 41, you have another 50 or so years to go so there is no need to be in pain or risking further injury. If you are going to swim do it slowly.
Three years ago I had surgery to repair a herniated disk, I strongly urge you to see a Dcotor and get a MRI (x-rays won't reveal the extent of the problem). I too went years off and on injuring myself--usually it would manifest as stiff hips or a weak right knee and leg. Personally, I think you should get it checked out before doing any type of competition. And if it comes to surgery, it's all done with lasers and your life will improve right away (I've also known runners and swimmers that had herniated disks in their necks and the surgery was an immediate relief). Remember if you are 41, you have another 50 or so years to go so there is no need to be in pain or risking further injury. If you are going to swim do it slowly.
