Unfortunately, because of financial issues, I can't be part of a dedicated swim team/group. So, I do my laps at the local YMCA (ugh). But I haven't swam in about 3 years and really want to start to do train for competition in school (just started high school, 14 years old). Also, although not grossly overweight, I am, at 5'10 and 150 lbs. Do YMCAs have reputable coaches or am I out of luck and have to just do laps on my own?
Parents
Former Member
5-10 is average, and I still have a hard time believing you are fat. :) My 16 year old son is 5-11 and 145 and is all muscle, no fat. He lifts weights in the fall with the soccer team, but otherwise just swims the rest of the year. He has been lifting since he was 14 and 5ft tall and it did not stunt his growth. As long as you are careful, and watch for proper form, you should enhance your swimming, not hinder.
As far as how tall you are, just do the best you can with what you are given. I have seen some very, very good swimmers who are shorter than you, but because they have excellent stroke technique, are very fast.
5-10 is average, and I still have a hard time believing you are fat. :) My 16 year old son is 5-11 and 145 and is all muscle, no fat. He lifts weights in the fall with the soccer team, but otherwise just swims the rest of the year. He has been lifting since he was 14 and 5ft tall and it did not stunt his growth. As long as you are careful, and watch for proper form, you should enhance your swimming, not hinder.
As far as how tall you are, just do the best you can with what you are given. I have seen some very, very good swimmers who are shorter than you, but because they have excellent stroke technique, are very fast.
