Starting over

Don't worry about how fast or in shape you are, we have a lane for every ability and speed. Shouldn't let that stop you. Thank you for the encouragement. What I mean by up to speed is that I want to be in better shape before I look into that option. I am sure there are beginner options out there but before I do that I want to feel more comfortable.

After a long layoff, I am getting back into swimming and I have some questions to ask. 1. How often should I rest? I plan on practicing at least 4 or 5 times a week. Bear in mind I am going to start out very slowly. 2. Any recommendations for a goggles or swim mask? I am thinking of using a swim mask starting out. 3. What should my basic swim program entail? 4. What should I be aware of starting out? I presume the layoff was from swimming? Or exercise in general? 1. If you intend to maintain a 4-5 session per week schedule, start with it. But make sure that you do not overindulge. Go to the pool, get in and swim easily until you feel comfortable. Then decide of you want to do any more and add yardage as desired. Do you plan to practice with a group? That will help immensely. 2. Go with goggles. There are many manufacturers and styles, you will find something that you like. 3. As before, start with something easy to warm up. Let your body tell you what to add or change. If you are practicing with a club, your coach will give good suggestions. Private lessons cannot be overrated. You can get help with stroke and conditioning tips, too. 4. You are not as young as you once were. Don't expect to do great things with little preparation. See a doctor to find out if you have any existing conditions that may preclude swimming. It is one of the best exercises for many conditions, but it never hurts to get a professional opinion. Few of us on the forums are doctors, and fewer yet are MDs. And the answer to the question you did not ask: have fun, no matter what you do. If it ain't fun, it ain't gonna work.

1. Optimally, you should be not swimming much more than swimming. 2. A mask would cover the nose, right? That's terrible. Speedo makes the best goggles, in general. These are my favorite: www.swimoutlet.com/.../5723.htm 3. This isn't your fault but nearly everyone asking for a training plan just need to read this: Ande's Swimming Tips: Swimming Faster Faster - U.S. Masters Swimming Discussion Forums Somebody please sticky Ande's thread. How long does your Speedo goggles last while using a cleaning solution? How many do you recommend getting over a year long training period? And do pools in general leave deposits on them by chance?

How long does your Speedo goggles last while using a cleaning solution? How many do you recommend getting over a year long training period? And do pools in general leave deposits on them by chance? Does Jazz or any other board member have any answers? I am looking to buy some new goggles since the company I normally buy them from went out of business. I know Speedo tends to be the leading candidate but can some people comment on goggles not made by speedo. I will truly appreciate any responses. Thank you for your time.

I use Speedo Vanquishers and they essentially last forever. I usually replace them about once a year just because they start to get dinged up and fog up more easily. If you rinse them out after every use and store them in the plastic case they come in they should last a long time. Unlike in the old days the straps and eye gasket are very durable. Lots of people like Swedes, but I think you either love them or hate them.

Thank You Arthur for your response. Can you please tell me what model of Speedo goggles that you use? I have the speed socket and vanquisher. Both I find very comfortable. I also have a 3rd pair which are also speed socket that I use only for racing.

Does Jazz or any other board member have any answers? I am looking to buy some new goggles since the company I normally buy them from went out of business. I know Speedo tends to be the leading candidate but can some people comment on goggles not made by speedo. I will truly appreciate any responses. Thank you for your time. I have two pairs of speedo googles for training. I don't use any cleaning solution other than soap. One for indoor and one for outdoor swimming. The indoor pair is almost 2 years old and the outdoor pair is over 2 years old. Both are going strong although the indoor pair has a few scratches from not protecting them properly.

After a long layoff, I am getting back into swimming and I have some questions to ask. 1. How often should I rest? I plan on practicing at least 4 or 5 times a week. Bear in mind I am going to start out very slowly. 2. Any recommendations for a goggles or swim mask? I am thinking of using a swim mask starting out. 3. What should my basic swim program entail? 4. What should I be aware of starting out? 1. I don't see anything wrong with 4 or 5 days a week. Just don't over do it. I recommend not taking off more than 1 day in a row, because 2+ days can set you back more than you think. 2. I'm not sure why you would use a swim mask. I'd personally stick with goggles. More hydrodynamic and you won't get funny looks at the pool. If you're concerned about water leakage, get something big like speedo hydrospecs. 3. You should work on maintaining a proper technique first and foremost. Do a lot of drills. Also work on gaining comfort in the water and distance. Then ultimately speed as you get stronger in the water. 4. If you haven't swam in a long time, you might get discouraged at how quickly you get tired. Just keep working and don't give up. Know your limits though. I also recommend trying to find a swim buddy to help you stay motivated.

I have two pairs of speedo googles for training. I don't use any cleaning solution other than soap. One for indoor and one for outdoor swimming. The indoor pair is almost 2 years old and the outdoor pair is over 2 years old. Both are going strong although the indoor pair has a few scratches from not protecting them properly. Thank You Arthur for your response. Can you please tell me what model of Speedo goggles that you use?

I use Speedo Vanquishers and they essentially last forever. I usually replace them about once a year just because they start to get dinged up and fog up more easily. If you rinse them out after every use and store them in the plastic case they come in they should last a long time. Unlike in the old days the straps and eye gasket are very durable. Lots of people like Swedes, but I think you either love them or hate them. I go with the swedes, but for my OW swim coming up next month, I think I'm going to defect to something like the Speedo Vanquishers or something "more comfortable" for the 5K distance.