Hi, if there is a beginner's forum, I apologize for posting in the wrong one. Would a mod please move me if needed?
I just wanted to find a place to learn and post about being a new middle aged swimmer.
I'm 43, in great shape and have always swam with my head outta the water, old fashioned. I work out at the local YMCA and watch with envy as the guys swim freestyle.
I finally got the nerve to ask about instruction. I have this 20 year old guy now who is giving me private lessons.
Yesterday was my first day.much akin to a rebirth, or teaching a stroke victim to walk again was probably what it looked like from poolside. I am NOT used to blowing out my nose in the water.
He was patient, VERY patient with me. Got in the pool with me.
It went well, I felt so incredibly stupid, uncoordinated and just plain childish. But..haha..I liked it. I like to learn.
I didn't try to swim distance, just work on form. To be honest, I went home, closed the bathroom door where wife and kids couldn't watch and practiced. YEP, stuck my big head into the full lavatory sink and blew out my nose. I dont' have fear of drowing, I know I'm not gonna suck in a bunch of water, but having to "PUSH" air out is un-natural, at least for me.
I went back this morning without him and worked by myself on standing and stroking with tossing my head to the side. I'm gettin there. I either push out too much or not enough. This lifeguard gave me a "buoy" thing to place between my legs to keep my butt afloat while I worked on breathing. It worked some, but was hard to get past the feeling of having something floaty between my legs. :p I feel good about learning and how it's going, just childish and slow.
I look forward to one day, no time soon, gracefully and effectively freestying just to the other end of the olympic pool.
I'm in no hurry, just want to do it right.
I actually was looking for a beginner's blog when I found this site.
I'm not looking for advice, at least not now. I'm afraid I'll get confused. I just wanted to connect with you swimmer guys and gals.
Excuse my lack of swimmer lingo also.
Mark
Thanks for listening and encouragement welcome. :)
Parents
Former Member
Hi Newbie:
First of all, welcome to the USMS Board. Being a member on this site for about a year, I want to mention that the General Discussion forum is OK for your question.
I was a swimmer & water polo player in high school back in the 60’s. After starting work, I’ve never had time to get in the water for 35 years. However, I’ve now decided to go back to swimming for recreation, fitness, and to provide me with a more fulfilling social life. I’ve found that I’m now a bit “rusty” and a little arthritic too. Never-the-less, I’ve made a firm resolution to “relearn” swimming.
You’re not alone in wanting to upgrade your skill and I’m glad to hear that you have a compassionate trainer too. Incidentally, I’ve found that a hot tub is a very convenient place to practice under water exhaling. You can get an hour’s worth of practice away from the pool and as an added, plus with all the tiny bubbles it’s like swimming in 7-Up (without the sugar and lemon taste of course).
Good Luck & Happy Swimming
Dolphin 2
:D
Hi Newbie:
First of all, welcome to the USMS Board. Being a member on this site for about a year, I want to mention that the General Discussion forum is OK for your question.
I was a swimmer & water polo player in high school back in the 60’s. After starting work, I’ve never had time to get in the water for 35 years. However, I’ve now decided to go back to swimming for recreation, fitness, and to provide me with a more fulfilling social life. I’ve found that I’m now a bit “rusty” and a little arthritic too. Never-the-less, I’ve made a firm resolution to “relearn” swimming.
You’re not alone in wanting to upgrade your skill and I’m glad to hear that you have a compassionate trainer too. Incidentally, I’ve found that a hot tub is a very convenient place to practice under water exhaling. You can get an hour’s worth of practice away from the pool and as an added, plus with all the tiny bubbles it’s like swimming in 7-Up (without the sugar and lemon taste of course).
Good Luck & Happy Swimming
Dolphin 2
:D