Thanks to all who responded to my other post...don't stop! I appreciate what you all have to say, even if it's the same as everyone else.
I think I have a good idea of what you all think about my question, but I'm slow and I like numbers, so this poll is just an addition to my original post.
The question, again, is - can I, a beginning swimmer, benefit from shaving down in order to get a better feel for the water and be more aware of my movements in the water? A former swimmer / good friend suggested I do this.
Thanks in advance for your continued response.
Parents
Former Member
Sun Devil,
I think shaving would benefit you, but only as part of a bigger plan.
Shaving is the last element to put an edge on your preparation for a big meet. By itself, it's pointless. Remember the goal is to swim your fastest time, not simply shave because it feels cool (and makes your friends and family think you are a weirdo).
You should start, now, with a plan to compete in a big meet in August where your goal is to swim your fastest times. Whether it's FINA Worlds (however, you are unlikely to have a qualifying time for those), or some other regional meet, big one as your target. You should have a training plan to get yourself into top condition for that meet, and you should keep your commitment to do the workouts in the next few weeks to be prepared for that meet. There is no substitute for being in shape and preparation. Talk to your coach about your training plan, and about your "taper" starting a week or two before the meet. (And if you're a beginner without a team or coach, focus on that and forget about shaving for a meet). If you get yourself into your best shape, prepare specifically for the events you will swim, then back off your training as part of an organized taper, shaving for a meet will feel different, and the overall package will lead to some phenominal times for you.
I say again, shaving by itself is pointless.
Matt
P.S. I find a new Aquablade/Fastskin competition swim suit is a reasonable substitute for shaving, and I prefer to use one of them instead.
Sun Devil,
I think shaving would benefit you, but only as part of a bigger plan.
Shaving is the last element to put an edge on your preparation for a big meet. By itself, it's pointless. Remember the goal is to swim your fastest time, not simply shave because it feels cool (and makes your friends and family think you are a weirdo).
You should start, now, with a plan to compete in a big meet in August where your goal is to swim your fastest times. Whether it's FINA Worlds (however, you are unlikely to have a qualifying time for those), or some other regional meet, big one as your target. You should have a training plan to get yourself into top condition for that meet, and you should keep your commitment to do the workouts in the next few weeks to be prepared for that meet. There is no substitute for being in shape and preparation. Talk to your coach about your training plan, and about your "taper" starting a week or two before the meet. (And if you're a beginner without a team or coach, focus on that and forget about shaving for a meet). If you get yourself into your best shape, prepare specifically for the events you will swim, then back off your training as part of an organized taper, shaving for a meet will feel different, and the overall package will lead to some phenominal times for you.
I say again, shaving by itself is pointless.
Matt
P.S. I find a new Aquablade/Fastskin competition swim suit is a reasonable substitute for shaving, and I prefer to use one of them instead.
