Howdy -
I'm swimming to get in shape. I've been here before but started my training wrong and hurt the shoulders and stopped (few years back now). Weight and time kept increasing and I'm back. I can do a 1700-2400 yd workout in a SCY pool now without much difficulty (been back a bit over a month, lost 15 lbs and doing some PT proactively for the shoulder support muscles, feeling better). Well someone at work talked to me about a swim they are going to (Peak's to Portland swim to benefit the Portland, ME YMCA). It is "only" 2.4 miles, open water, in the ocean (Atlantic in July.. 50s for water temp?).
I am going to hit search here for training but looking for suggestions. I have just over 3 months to train (middle July). The other day I did 900yds without rest (I know, not a big deal but compared to a month ago, not bad) but that was a SCY pool with turns/kicks every 25yds.
So... What is a good strategy from going from "0 to 2 miles"? Our masters class is an informal class that is a workout group that meets 2 nights a week. We have a coach who runs swim teams for younger kids and has given great help on stroke so I'll be talking to her for thoughts but I wonder where I should be and when to get to that 2.4 miles by mid July?
I swan the Peaks for the first time last year - great event. Having a kayaker that can help with navigation is a true asset. I think I might try it without a wetsuit this year as I was almost overheated last year.
Your time for the 1650 looks good (I think that 72 lengths = 1 mile, so 1800 yards). I will get in a 1 hour swim sometime in June just to get used to the idea of swimming for such a long time all at once. Even during the event last year I swam some backstroke to keep the shoulders loose. Remember that swimming with a wetsuit will make you more buoyant and faster (I think I read that you can pick up 3-4 seconds per hundred).
Keep up the commitment to training. And get ready, it really is a fun swim.
I swan the Peaks for the first time last year - great event. Having a kayaker that can help with navigation is a true asset. I think I might try it without a wetsuit this year as I was almost overheated last year.
Your time for the 1650 looks good (I think that 72 lengths = 1 mile, so 1800 yards). I will get in a 1 hour swim sometime in June just to get used to the idea of swimming for such a long time all at once. Even during the event last year I swam some backstroke to keep the shoulders loose. Remember that swimming with a wetsuit will make you more buoyant and faster (I think I read that you can pick up 3-4 seconds per hundred).
Keep up the commitment to training. And get ready, it really is a fun swim.
