I am working on a masters swimming story for Men's Health, and my editor wants a basic introductory workout that guys who basically know how to swim but aren't swimmers to give the sport a try on their own.
Since there is such a huge variance in skill levels, etc., I didn't want to give times for sets, etc. but maybe come up with some basic rest intervals.
Anyhow, I am desperate for ideas here. If you have coached neophyte masters, or have been a neophyte master yourself and can recall an early practice that inspired you, please let me know as soon as possible what this is.
I was thinking of the following basic approach:
warm up
possible drill set
main set (probably 50s with 10-15 seconds rest)
kick set
cool down
The whole thing designed to last maybe a half hour or so. The idea is to let these guys try it on their own, in a way that they might actually like, then urge them to look into finding a team.
Thanks for your help!
Parents
Former Member
I vote "no" on the pull-buoy, hand paddles and mono-fin for neophytes.
I vote "yes" on a proper swimsuit. I see too many wearing T-shirts over generic workout clothes in an indoor pool (no danger of sunburn). Caps for women, optional for men. Goggles for everyone.
Many of the neophytes think they have to be able to swim butterfly and do flip turns to join a Masters team, which is really unfortunate. They also don't have to be in great condition for most clubs.
Most of the people I see at the health club have horrendous technique and just swim nonstop switching to breaststroke or backstroke when they get too tired swimming crappy freestyle. After 400 yards most are trashed. They can get across the pool but don't relax in the water and don't breath well. Alignment is poor and streamlining especially off the walls is bad.
A snorkel can either be a big help to those who have poor alignment and don't breathe well; or it can feel too restrictive. Fins are nice cheaters to help lean but unconditioned swimmers and on drills.
Finally, whatever you recommend, make sure it's something that won't annoy other swimmers trying to co-exist in the same pool. Like - none of the drills where you go sideways diving over the laneropes using up the entire pool. :D
I vote "no" on the pull-buoy, hand paddles and mono-fin for neophytes.
I vote "yes" on a proper swimsuit. I see too many wearing T-shirts over generic workout clothes in an indoor pool (no danger of sunburn). Caps for women, optional for men. Goggles for everyone.
Many of the neophytes think they have to be able to swim butterfly and do flip turns to join a Masters team, which is really unfortunate. They also don't have to be in great condition for most clubs.
Most of the people I see at the health club have horrendous technique and just swim nonstop switching to breaststroke or backstroke when they get too tired swimming crappy freestyle. After 400 yards most are trashed. They can get across the pool but don't relax in the water and don't breath well. Alignment is poor and streamlining especially off the walls is bad.
A snorkel can either be a big help to those who have poor alignment and don't breathe well; or it can feel too restrictive. Fins are nice cheaters to help lean but unconditioned swimmers and on drills.
Finally, whatever you recommend, make sure it's something that won't annoy other swimmers trying to co-exist in the same pool. Like - none of the drills where you go sideways diving over the laneropes using up the entire pool. :D
