Hi, I am somewhat new to Masters Swimming. I swam competitively ( somewhat!) when I was younger but for the last 30 years have been a fitness lap swimmer ( 1650yds @ 24: 30 ) I have done a few postal challenges and have been thinking about competing in a meet, it has been 30 years since I have started off a block or dove at all because I have a bad shoulder. Long story already but do they allow in water starts? Is this to geeky to even show up at a meet? Do I just have to figure out how to dive without dislocating my shoulder? I train alone so don't have access to blocks. Any help would be GREAT! I have really been enjoying my swimming and trying to get faster, fun after 30 years of just fitness swimming. Thanks, Paul
From the USMS rule book:
The forward start may be taken from the starting block, the pool deck, or a push from the wall. At the commencement of each heat, the referee shall signal to the swimmers by a short series of whistles to remove all clothing except for swimwear, followed by a long whistle indicating that they should take their positions with at least one foot at the front of the starting platform, the edge of the pool, or on the wall before the command “Take your mark.” Those starting in the water must have at least one hand in contact with the wall or starting block.
From the USMS rule book:
The forward start may be taken from the starting block, the pool deck, or a push from the wall. At the commencement of each heat, the referee shall signal to the swimmers by a short series of whistles to remove all clothing except for swimwear, followed by a long whistle indicating that they should take their positions with at least one foot at the front of the starting platform, the edge of the pool, or on the wall before the command “Take your mark.” Those starting in the water must have at least one hand in contact with the wall or starting block.
