Running. Does it help your swimming or is it an interesting diversion? A lot of people here seem to cross train with running. (Some are obviously triathletes). USS teams now have their swimmers running. But does running really help swimming?
For me, I'm not so sure. I think it helps a bit on the cardio side and may build leg strength. I do it to tighten everything up, because I like being outside and it gives my shoulders a break. But I'm not sure I wouldn't be better off with more pool time if my body could take it.
Joshua, Would you please detail some of the agonist muscle work you do?
Thanks in advance.
First off, I strongly recommend "Swimming Anatomy" by Ian Mcleod. It thoroughly covers this topic for all 4 strokes along with great illustrations.
To be honest, at this time I am only swimming. The only dry land activity I do is stretching. As I have gotten older I feel that a good stretching session after swimming (10-15 minutes), with emphasis on my shoulder girdle, is of great importance.
I will eventually get back to strength training and I personally have always favored composite exercises that hit alot of musculature: various pushups, dips, pullups, squats etc. You don't even need a weight room. Try a good full body circuit at home. In 20 minutes you will be blasted.
Joshua, Would you please detail some of the agonist muscle work you do?
Thanks in advance.
First off, I strongly recommend "Swimming Anatomy" by Ian Mcleod. It thoroughly covers this topic for all 4 strokes along with great illustrations.
To be honest, at this time I am only swimming. The only dry land activity I do is stretching. As I have gotten older I feel that a good stretching session after swimming (10-15 minutes), with emphasis on my shoulder girdle, is of great importance.
I will eventually get back to strength training and I personally have always favored composite exercises that hit alot of musculature: various pushups, dips, pullups, squats etc. You don't even need a weight room. Try a good full body circuit at home. In 20 minutes you will be blasted.
