I happened to notice recently that there is a Master's Swim session at my Y. I'm interested but here's the awful truth: It has been years and years since I swam regularly. I would say that it's been 10 years since I swam laps and 15 since I swam in any kind of competitive way (I was never on a team really but swam in the intramural league and did a triathalon once.)
"In shape" was a long, long, time ago. I would say "way, way, out of shape" is more accurate now.
So ff to a few days ago when I noticed the Masters Swim info. I hopped in the pool and think technically I'm, well, okay. I think my strokes still feel good. But I'm slower than molasses, easily winded, and have no stamina . . . at all!
The very idea of appearing, in my swim suit, b/f a crew of super fit swimming masters is more than a little intimidating and the idea of frustrating everyone with my uber slow strokes is more than a little daunting.
So, what do you think? Is the Masters Swim for old has beens wanting to get back at it? Could I expect a mix of abilities, including utterly out of shape, or just the . . . well . . . M*A*S*T*E*R*S!
Would it be better to spend some time in the pool catching up b/f committing to the Masters program?
That would really seem sensible but I have an accountability issue. It's awfully hard to get up early to swim and I need the accountability of paid membership (there's an additional charge for the MS) or a team/group dynamic that'll drag me out of bed.
Any good advice out there?
Greetings Rebeccca,
You should receive a number of responses saying to just jump in and do it. In my limited number of years as a masters swimmer (four), I've seen a large range of skill and ability, at both meets and training sessions. Regardless, everyone I've met has been very receptive and encouraging, regardless of ability.
I should also say that I'm in your approximate neck of the woods (live in western AR) and have gone to several masters meets in both Tulsa and OKC. Each meet I've been to has been an enjoyable experience and everyone's very friendly. My wife and I have also done a workout with the Tulsa masters on occasion and they were very cordial.
Long story short, no one's going to judge your ability, you'll find both fast and slow swimmers, and workouts are set up for people to improve. From what I can tell, master's swimming is for anyone who wants to swim. Good luck and have fun.
:banana:
Greetings Rebeccca,
You should receive a number of responses saying to just jump in and do it. In my limited number of years as a masters swimmer (four), I've seen a large range of skill and ability, at both meets and training sessions. Regardless, everyone I've met has been very receptive and encouraging, regardless of ability.
I should also say that I'm in your approximate neck of the woods (live in western AR) and have gone to several masters meets in both Tulsa and OKC. Each meet I've been to has been an enjoyable experience and everyone's very friendly. My wife and I have also done a workout with the Tulsa masters on occasion and they were very cordial.
Long story short, no one's going to judge your ability, you'll find both fast and slow swimmers, and workouts are set up for people to improve. From what I can tell, master's swimming is for anyone who wants to swim. Good luck and have fun.
:banana:
