Hello! This is my first post. I have started swimming more lately because I need a layoff from running to let some injuiries heal.
I swam as a kid and some as an adult but I am now interested in getting better and swimming longer as cross training.
Here are some questions:
1) Is my back hurting due to bad form or have I simply ramped up pool time too quickly? I have been swimming for about 3-4 weeks and now swim 45-60 minutes at a time.:dunno: I'm in good shape so I don't get tired that quickly but maybe my body needs to get accustomed to swimming?
2) are there any earplugs that really work? I've tried two pairs. One was a wax like thing that didn't stay in long. The other is a rubber thing with a long handle - it's better but doesn't keep all the water out
3) I try to beathe every 4 strokes. Is this good? It gets harder after about 15-20 laps and have to go to every 2 strokes occasionally
Thanks, I'd love any advice you can offer for newbies
Parents
Former Member
badnees. Just getting started, we will all mention technique. I will just mention a couple of things which may help. Breathing every 4 strokes ok for a short swim I breathe once every stroke cycle and on the left although at tmes I will swim as many as 8 strokes without a breath. Make sure you reach forward as the hand enters but don't twist the body. Let the hand drop to the catch then exert some pressure on the water. Don't let the elbow drop during the catch phase. Be sure and finish your stroke by toucing your thigh. Roll the hand out cleanly get the elbow high. Your shoulders must clear the water on each stroke. When you hand enters don't slap the water.
Ease off on the stroke and get in condition for swimming. You are using muscles that you have not used before.
badnees. Just getting started, we will all mention technique. I will just mention a couple of things which may help. Breathing every 4 strokes ok for a short swim I breathe once every stroke cycle and on the left although at tmes I will swim as many as 8 strokes without a breath. Make sure you reach forward as the hand enters but don't twist the body. Let the hand drop to the catch then exert some pressure on the water. Don't let the elbow drop during the catch phase. Be sure and finish your stroke by toucing your thigh. Roll the hand out cleanly get the elbow high. Your shoulders must clear the water on each stroke. When you hand enters don't slap the water.
Ease off on the stroke and get in condition for swimming. You are using muscles that you have not used before.
