Getting started with Swimming

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2008-04-30 2:36 PM


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Subject: Getting started with Swimming

I've decided to start training for Du's and possibly Tri's this year and focusing on Sprint distance just to get started. My run and bike endurance is good but I've never swam more than a pool length.. and even that was 10 years ago.

Any tips on getting started with swimming? I know I'm terrible at it (from some brief thrashing I did last year at a friends pool) and I'm not sure just hopping in and thrashing about is going to help much. Should I get an instructor? Tri-Coach? I do have access to a pool at the Y as well.

I'm just lost when it comes to swimming, I can't even imagine jumping into an open water swim with 500 people. For the time being I am signing up for Du's but I'd really like to get a Tri in before the end of the year.

Thanks!



2008-04-30 3:14 PM
in reply to: #1373035

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Champion
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Albuquerque, New Mexico
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Subject: RE: Getting started with Swimming

Sign up for some lessons.  One, it'll give you someone to look over your stroke.  Two, it gives you a schedule to go to the pool at least once a week (hopefully more). 

Beyond the lessons, GO SLOW and RELAX.  Think about graceful swimming and gliding through the water rather than thrashing around. 

2008-04-30 3:59 PM
in reply to: #1373035

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Master
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Athens, Ga.
Subject: RE: Getting started with Swimming

Like McFuzz said, definitely get lessons. Some YMCAs offer group lessons, which would be cheaper than individual ones, if that is an issue for you. Plus, it's almost summer, so swim lessons are about to start in full swing. And I see you're a member of the Y, so they should be able to help.

Other than that, get in the pool. Start out very slowly - just like learning to run, the goal isn't speed, it's just doing it. Watch other swimmers and try to copy their techniques. Grab a kickboard and practice kicking. The only way you're going to get better in the long run - besides those lessons - is practice. Have fun!

 

2008-04-30 4:06 PM
in reply to: #1373308

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Expert
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Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Subject: RE: Getting started with Swimming

I agree with all of the above. I asked the same basic question 2 or 3 weeks ago. I was given some great advice by the members of this site. By using their advice I went from 200 yards to 1000 yards almost overnight. Here's a link to that thread: http://beginnertriathlete.com/discussion/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=110767&posts=22&start=1

 

2008-05-01 6:49 AM
in reply to: #1373035


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Subject: RE: Getting started with Swimming
Thanks, I'm going to try and find an instructor this week.
2008-05-01 7:11 AM
in reply to: #1373035

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Extreme Veteran
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Minnetonka Beach, MN
Subject: RE: Getting started with Swimming
Patience...


2008-05-01 7:56 AM
in reply to: #1373035

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Veteran
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Grayson, Ga.
Subject: RE: Getting started with Swimming
Check out youtube and search for swimming technique.
Watch a see what they are doing, then go to the pool and see what you can do.
The learning curve is very sharp and you'll do a little better each time.
For me after 3 weeks or so, or 8 trips to the pool, I just figured out what pace I could hold without feeling like I was oxygen deprived and I could swim 300, then 500 and so on.

Good luck,

-Brian
2008-05-01 8:13 AM
in reply to: #1374348

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Master
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Subject: RE: Getting started with Swimming

ball6135 - 2008-05-01 8:11 AM Patience...

could not agree more... of course the swim instructor will help

2008-05-01 8:16 AM
in reply to: #1373035

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Buttercup
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Subject: RE: Getting started with Swimming

I have a little exercise which will help you develop instinctive breath control. Has nothing to do with your stroke, strength or endurance. It is merely to help you learn to coordinate and control your nasal/mouth instincts.

Do handstands in water approx 4-5' deep. Walk on your hands. Learn to control what happens to the air in your lungs while upside down. I recommend exhaling only through your nose. Learn to empty your lungs quickly while upside down; hold the position while not exhaling. Learn to exhale slowly while upside down. Learn to not exhale at all while upside down. Do these exercises when there is a lifeguard present.

This kind of exhaling and nasal/mouth coordination and control will serve you very well during your OW swim races.

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