Forgive me if this topic has been raised before, but here goes:
I was jogging around my favorite urban lake yesterday thinking about swimming (of course), and I decided that one thing I'd like to do before the end of the year is actually compete in a real live swim meet.
I don't have regular access to an organized swim program because of my work schedule, but I'll happily take any advice on how to train. Currently I'm about 20 lbs. overweight, but I jog regularly and swim about 3 - 4 times a week. Thus far, all my swimming has been for the fun of it.
Any ideas on how I should actually train for a competition? What kind of workout regimen, schedule, etc.?
Now, I know that Masters swimmers are great, wonderful, supportive and not at all hostile to those of us who are complete novices. However, I would like to make a decent showing, even if I finish last in whatever events I swim. (Also, I don't know what meets are coming up at the end of the year, so if anyone has any clue on competitions in the Seattle area, that'd be swell.)
I came up with the idea because I'm training for a 5K road race at the end of July, and asked myself why I "compete" in a sport I only marginally like, while I don't do the same in swimming, which I consider just about the most fun you can have with your clothes on. So to speak.
Thanks!
Adam
Swimming 3-4x per week is more than enough to think of competitions. Training for competition could be a bit different. If you are just going in and swimming laps (non-stop) 3-4x, then I'd suggest swimming sets (ie. 10 x 100 @ 1:45), etc. If you are already swimming sets, then just try dropping the times on the sets with the idea that by the time you reach #10 you can still beat the interval (but be challenged by doing so). Other workout examples are available on this site in the workouts section. Good Luck!
Swimming 3-4x per week is more than enough to think of competitions. Training for competition could be a bit different. If you are just going in and swimming laps (non-stop) 3-4x, then I'd suggest swimming sets (ie. 10 x 100 @ 1:45), etc. If you are already swimming sets, then just try dropping the times on the sets with the idea that by the time you reach #10 you can still beat the interval (but be challenged by doing so). Other workout examples are available on this site in the workouts section. Good Luck!
