i'm a lazy swimmer--i've always swum for long distances without doing any speedwork--i can go on forever (like 5 hours) but i'm slow.
I joined a master's program to work on my speed and i asked the coach to correct my technique. i've changed my technique a little but i haven't seen much increase in speed. is the speed going to come with the pool workouts? or do i need to change my technique even more? (obviously this is hard to answer without seeing my swim, but i guess my question is, could someone who is actually a good swimmer, with decent technique, be slow simply because she doesn't do the correct type of workouts?)
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Former Member
Hey Surfergirl,
I think the answer is yes; the type of workout you do definitely has an effect on your speed. The old adage is, if you want to swim faster, you have to swim faster. Thus, you need to incorporate some speed training into your workouts. Over the last few months, I've added some sprinting into my workouts; such as 8x25 or 8x50, all out, on long rest. It has translated into a pretty significant drop in my 100 and 200 times. I also think it has a beneficial effect on your technique; speed training can make your stroke more efficient. Plus, it's fun; staring at the bottom of the pool for long swims can get pretty boring. I try to work in some speed training a couple times a week. If you stick with it, you should see some positive results. Good luck!
Dan
Hey Surfergirl,
I think the answer is yes; the type of workout you do definitely has an effect on your speed. The old adage is, if you want to swim faster, you have to swim faster. Thus, you need to incorporate some speed training into your workouts. Over the last few months, I've added some sprinting into my workouts; such as 8x25 or 8x50, all out, on long rest. It has translated into a pretty significant drop in my 100 and 200 times. I also think it has a beneficial effect on your technique; speed training can make your stroke more efficient. Plus, it's fun; staring at the bottom of the pool for long swims can get pretty boring. I try to work in some speed training a couple times a week. If you stick with it, you should see some positive results. Good luck!
Dan
