Hi there. I am an active guy in my mid-20's with virtually no "swimming as exercise" experience. I learned to swim as a kid and my father (at the time a Coast Guard Master Chief) made sure I knew how to do a basic *** stroke and besides that I have no experience. I am an active runner and aerobic cyclist and wanted to add swimming to my exercise regimen (maybe a triathalon in the future?).
I realize this is "US Masters Swimming" but I thought maybe the "masters" could give me some rookie advice? Where can I find a good way to correctly learn to swim with various strokes, learn breathing pattern, etc? Also, what type of gear should I buy and from where? What is the best swimsuit for a beginner?
Any help would be appreciated. Thanks alot.
Matt
Former Member
It sounds like you're not quite ready to join a masters program and need more instruction right now than training. The rec center I swim at offers private lessons to adults. I have no idea of the cost, but they tailor the lesson to the needs and goals of the swimmer, so you have control over what you are being taught.
I *think* our rec center runs them in 1 week blocks, so you go the same time every day for 5 days for 1/2 hour or so, and the instructor advises you on what/how to practice for the next day. Of course everywhere is different, and this is only what I have gleaned from earwigging the lane next to me on my rest. But its probably worth a call to your local city pool.
As for swimsuit - get something in polyester/endurance fabric. I find jammers easier on the eye than briefs :bolt:
Some Master clubs except duffers as long as they can manage to swim a few lengths. There are a few clubs that have a coach for the slow lane and they do help you with your stroke. In BC Canada if you want to participate with a master club you must sign up to be a master swimmer. Any swim suit will do.
As relatively new swimmer, what has helped me:
1) 1 on 1 instruction. IMHO this is a biggie if brand new
2) joining a good masters program, preferably with fellow beginners/triathletes
3) 2-3 days/wk, at a minimum
4) a lot of kicking without fins. this was the only way I could integrate a steady flutter into my freestyle and finally eliminate my scissor kick.
5) patience, lots of it. those fast guys didn't get good overnight. :)
G'luck!
Matt,
The New England Masters registrar lives in Londonderry, NH. I just wrote to her and she gave me some contact names for you. I sent them to you in an email.
Anna Lea
I woud recommend (from expereince) to take some private/semi lessons. Most importantly with a good coach. With swimming ( like golf, tennis) it's important to learn good form and technique. Better to start with good swimming habits, rather than learning allot of bad ones. Like most of us if you want to be good at something you have to practice.
You definately want a good suit (jammer, competition). Don't get one of those baggy suits that will only create more drag in the pool slowing you down and you will get tired allot quicker.
Hopes this helps
Enjoy the water
Skipper
Quote from above:
"As for swimsuit - get something in polyester/endurance fabric. I find jammers easier on the eye than briefs." :bolt:
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Jammers (and tech suits) have got to be one of the weirdest, most ghastly form of eye irritation to ever come out of the apparel industry. Just put on a jammer, take a look in a full length mirror, and notice that "shrink wrapped" appearance. See comment below:
U.S. Masters Swimming Discussion Forums - View Single Post - Singapore water polo team criticised for 'inappropriate' ...
D2
Thank you for all of your input and replies. I really appreciate the help. I know I'm not even close to being a competitive swimmer, but I will use all of your advice and start training! Feel free to keep in contact and give advice/tips if you would like. I'm open to any help.
AnnaLea, thanks for the help with the contact. Unfortunately I didn't get an e-mail yet or my junk mail folder got rid of it. My e-mail is:
mattnewby04@hotmail.com
Thanks to all for the help!
Matt
