I started swimming 2 years ago as part of doing triathlon (please, no one beat me up). Up to this point while I've taken swimming somewhat serious I've certainly let biking and running be my focus while just trying to be an "okay" swimmer. Currently, I swim 10@100 at around 1:25 ish (I don't leave at 1:25 by my actual swim time is 1:25 per 100) with a god-awful flip turn. My volume starting this season is roughly 8 - 10k/week.
I really want to start putting more emphasis on swimming and becoming a better swimmer. I enjoy swimming and think there is a lot ahead of me. I met with a good swimmer and he is starting to point me in the right direction. The first thing we are doing is just upping my volume. I'm going to start putting in 12 - 15k each week.
My question for the good swimmers is: are there volume levels where you noticed improvement in your swimming. I mean, for example, when you starting putting in X yards per week consistently you noticed an improvement in swimming. I know this is probably different for everyone but I just wanted to get a general feel...
I know I can translate this into running - when I hit 50 miles a week I can feel the difference in my running. And from there it is usually in 10's for me. 60 miles a week and 70 miles a week.
Thanks.
Another thing to consider, in addition to total volume, is the length of the main sets you are doing. I think you will see marked improvement in aerobic distances if you do lots of long sets (maybe 30-45 minutes) that emphasis swimming at a strong aerobic pace with not much rest between repeats. Just doing sets like 10x100 isn't going to do this for you, but a 3,000 yard set will.
Another thing to consider, in addition to total volume, is the length of the main sets you are doing. I think you will see marked improvement in aerobic distances if you do lots of long sets (maybe 30-45 minutes) that emphasis swimming at a strong aerobic pace with not much rest between repeats. Just doing sets like 10x100 isn't going to do this for you, but a 3,000 yard set will.
