I swam as an age grouper for 12 years and was trained as a sprinter (200's were my distance races). Now, 10 years later, I am getting wet again and training for a triathalon - I feel like you'd never know I swam for 12 years. What I am focusing on is distance per stroke but I really have no structures in my workouts. Does anyone have ANY advice that can be offered for open water and distance training? It would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Ya'll have a good one,
Wayner
Parents
Former Member
Welcome back Man. My advise, take it easy at first and don't over do it. You don't want to ge frustrated and burn out. As your muscle strength returns, your form, technique and speed will quickly come back. You may not be as fast, but if you are going for triathlons, it is endurance that counts. If you aren't on a masters Team, like me, develop workouts and sets just like you use to do. Not as long or fast at first, but set intervals that will challenge you but can be achieved. I swim 3 days a week, lift weights 1-2 days a week. I swim 3000 yard workouts now, but started at 1000 yards went to 2000 and so on. If you want a sample of the type of sets I do in my workouts, let me know.
As for open water swims, start in the pool and get in decent shape first. An open water swim is quite different. It is disorienting at first, can't see below, cant judge speed, difficult to navigate, cold, waves, kelp, fish. Go with a friend the first time out, either in a boat or swimming with you. Open water swims are fun, but be safe.
Welcome back Man. My advise, take it easy at first and don't over do it. You don't want to ge frustrated and burn out. As your muscle strength returns, your form, technique and speed will quickly come back. You may not be as fast, but if you are going for triathlons, it is endurance that counts. If you aren't on a masters Team, like me, develop workouts and sets just like you use to do. Not as long or fast at first, but set intervals that will challenge you but can be achieved. I swim 3 days a week, lift weights 1-2 days a week. I swim 3000 yard workouts now, but started at 1000 yards went to 2000 and so on. If you want a sample of the type of sets I do in my workouts, let me know.
As for open water swims, start in the pool and get in decent shape first. An open water swim is quite different. It is disorienting at first, can't see below, cant judge speed, difficult to navigate, cold, waves, kelp, fish. Go with a friend the first time out, either in a boat or swimming with you. Open water swims are fun, but be safe.
