How slow is a 40 min mile?

If you did 1600 in 35 minutes, that averages 2:11.25 per 100, so I'm guessing your times were off somewhere along the line. Try looking for a Timex waterproof watch, i think they have one called the "iron man" which is water proof and can be worn while swimming. I know they have it at Walmart for less than $30. I also suggest doing Kevin William's workouts. They are fun, and keep things moving, and the 2:00 will probably be close to your ability level. Back in May when I first started, I was focused only on how far I could go, and got bored pretty quickly. I have been doing these workouts three times a week, and am never bored. Even though the focus is not on distance, you will find when you try a mile swim, you will have improved. I did two one mile swims, one month apart (and in that month i was out of the water for 1.5 weeks due to illness) and was able to drop my time by 45 seconds. It definitely works.

If you did 1600 in 35 minutes, that averages 2:11.25 per 100, so I'm guessing your times were off somewhere along the line. Try looking for a Timex waterproof watch, i think they have one called the "iron man" which is water proof and can be worn while swimming. I know they have it at Walmart for less than $30. I also suggest doing Kevin William's workouts. They are fun, and keep things moving, and the 2:00 will probably be close to your ability level. Back in May when I first started, I was focused only on how far I could go, and got bored pretty quickly. I have been doing these workouts three times a week, and am never bored. Even though the focus is not on distance, you will find when you try a mile swim, you will have improved. I did two one mile swims, one month apart (and in that month i was out of the water for 1.5 weeks due to illness) and was able to drop my time by 45 seconds. It definitely works.