I thought I'd try an experiment here. I propose that anyone of any swimming level can use this thread (or not) when, whether in a small way or earthshaking manner you've done something in the pool that you're proud and/or pleased by. Anyone is welcome to add encouraging comments (or not) or ask for more info., but please no grandstanding or feuding.
Okay- I'll go first (and I'm just as hesitant as anyone else). Context: last few months hellish: collapse of my dream business, death in family, huge money troubles etc. result months out of water & exercise & 30lb gain. Further, I just went back over the last 10 yrs, averaged 1 meet a year, no more than 4 months training in any one year. So- been back in water 4 weeks, 2-3 times a week and mostly feeling like chopped liver. Monday night coach say we're going to do dive 25's (meters) from blocks, starter's instructions. Now I haven't done this in years 'cause I have a very bad neck- but I've been frustrated so...did all 3 breastroke 16.3, 15.5, 16.2 which tells me I've still got prospects to go fast again! I am pleased.
Diane,
My goggles are off to you. 9450 yards is HUGE and in a lot of people's league. Are you kidding me? The amazing part of this is you were barely swimming a mile 8 weeks ago. AND, the only person who made this happen was you and your resolve and commitment. My dear, you are in the Distance League whether you think so or not. 5.25 miles is a long way in a short amt of time. Celebrate, keep training, don't taper too soon. If people don't get back to you on your Taper question on Open water, you can always ask Andy. Maybe Leonard and Rob Copeland will jump in on your taper question.
The thing I like the most is this just proves that all of us can be fit at any age; we just have to commit to it. I'm proud of your accomplishment and I can't wait for you to get to enjoy the actual open water swim: a new life's adventure!!
donna
:wine:
Thanks Donna! I am inspired by your example! Actually surprised I was able to up the distance so soon. I think a big factor is that I seem to recover from long swims lots faster than from long runs. I'd definitely be allowing myself more time for, say, running a marathon, b/c my legs are dogmeat after a long run. My arms/shoulders are mildly sore after a long swim, but a day off usually recharges me pretty nicely. Fascinating the new territory I find in myself as I go along!
For all of you who are starting out, if you see a race that just grabs your attention and you think maybe it would be neat to try it but also think "there's no way I could do that!"--think again! It might not be this year, but if you really want it, why not aim for it... in a year, maybe two years, just keep it as a goal! When the time is right, send in your entry. You'll be glad you did! The learning curve alone is worth the effort!
Diane,
My goggles are off to you. 9450 yards is HUGE and in a lot of people's league. Are you kidding me? The amazing part of this is you were barely swimming a mile 8 weeks ago. AND, the only person who made this happen was you and your resolve and commitment. My dear, you are in the Distance League whether you think so or not. 5.25 miles is a long way in a short amt of time. Celebrate, keep training, don't taper too soon. If people don't get back to you on your Taper question on Open water, you can always ask Andy. Maybe Leonard and Rob Copeland will jump in on your taper question.
The thing I like the most is this just proves that all of us can be fit at any age; we just have to commit to it. I'm proud of your accomplishment and I can't wait for you to get to enjoy the actual open water swim: a new life's adventure!!
donna
:wine:
Thanks Donna! I am inspired by your example! Actually surprised I was able to up the distance so soon. I think a big factor is that I seem to recover from long swims lots faster than from long runs. I'd definitely be allowing myself more time for, say, running a marathon, b/c my legs are dogmeat after a long run. My arms/shoulders are mildly sore after a long swim, but a day off usually recharges me pretty nicely. Fascinating the new territory I find in myself as I go along!
For all of you who are starting out, if you see a race that just grabs your attention and you think maybe it would be neat to try it but also think "there's no way I could do that!"--think again! It might not be this year, but if you really want it, why not aim for it... in a year, maybe two years, just keep it as a goal! When the time is right, send in your entry. You'll be glad you did! The learning curve alone is worth the effort!
