Hi all,
Some background, I had neck surgery in March 2007 and started to swim again after 25 years, I'm 45 this year.
I started swimming outside in a 50m pool going up with *** and coming back with free. After about 1.5 months I started all free. Presently I am doing 1500m with paddles and buoy in about 26:50.
Is there any problem with just doing this type of workout 7 days a week?
So far I have no other injuries and my stroke feels OK.
Is there any benefit of not using the paddles and buoy?
Thanks for your time
Rob.
Former Member
Hi Rob,
First, thank goodness you are having no repercussions from your surgery and that your swimming is going so well. Swimming a 1500m in 26 plus is pretty darn good this soon. There is nothing wrong with using hand paddles/buoy but for fitness you really need to swim with your entire body (legs, too). Also, your body will become accustomed to just swimming that mile and nothing more. I'd sure mix it up a little bit if your body will let you.
I would attempt some different sets on an interval. Since you can swim the mile without trouble, I'd try doing some 400 repeats with a minute or two rest and get your time on a clock. Try to keep them all about the same if your neck will allow. Also, repeat 100s and repeat 50s are a good idea. For better conditioning, I'd do the repeats above with big rest and little rest. This will help you to become more aerobically sound at a faster pace. But first and foremost is how you feel and only you can judge that.
You're doing 7 miles a week; that's pretty impressive!
donna
