I am a track and field sprinter (100m-400m) and looking for some cross training. I started swimming because we have a pool where I work and I was nursing back spasms and achilies tendonitis from running. I found out about local swim meets and thought it would be fun to try. I love to compete.
It was a blast. It was very similar to a track meet so I was comfortable in that regard, but nervous because I have never raced in a pool.
I only know freestyle. Did the 100m free in 70 seconds (three bad turns) and the 50m free in 30 seconds (one bad turn). I have no clue how to do the flip turns and it showed. I will definately need to practice that.
I found it hard to warm up properly and got cold waiting for my events. Will need to pack very warm clothes next time.
People that don't look very fast out of the water.... are very fast in the water.
People at swim meets couldn't be more friendly and helpful. I got alot of good advice.
Will practice the turns and hopefully get down to a 27 and a 60 for the next meet. If I can improve alot, I may focus on swim training and run secondary.
I will probably post again asking when to initiate the flip turn. I need to learn what to key on visually as I approach. This was my big problem. I had no spacial awareness and vision.
Parents
Former Member
No lifting for me. I swim about 4 times a week and I typically cover about 1500 yards per practice. I am limited to about 30-45 minutes so I tend to focus on swimming at or near race pace once I am warmed up. I don't usually swim more than a 100 aside from warmup where I might swim a slow 200.
I think you will find that the faster swimmers are training well over 2000 yards per practice and most likely at least 4 times a week. It takes time and dedication. I have a fair amount of dedication but my time is limited. Just the same...I enjoy myself and it keeps me healthy and fit.
No lifting for me. I swim about 4 times a week and I typically cover about 1500 yards per practice. I am limited to about 30-45 minutes so I tend to focus on swimming at or near race pace once I am warmed up. I don't usually swim more than a 100 aside from warmup where I might swim a slow 200.
I think you will find that the faster swimmers are training well over 2000 yards per practice and most likely at least 4 times a week. It takes time and dedication. I have a fair amount of dedication but my time is limited. Just the same...I enjoy myself and it keeps me healthy and fit.
