Swimming

[Mad Doug Biker]

So I have decided to take the plunge (boom boom!) and start swimming again after many years.

I used to do a rather pathetic (but effective) doggy paddle/breast stroke thing that seemed to work, but I want to do something properly now in my bid to get fit once more.

What should I do to start off sensibly and not knacker myself within the first week? Are there any sensible training plans people know of? Also, what to eat and when!

Thanks.

 

[swee'pea99]

Good one - I don't think you'll regret it. To be honest, I think the best thing you could do to start out is just take your rather pathetic (but effective) doggy paddle/breast stroke thing to the pool a few times a week, and do as many lengths as feels reasonably comfortable. Don't overdo it (and put yourself off) - aim to get out while you're ahead. Stick at that for a month or so, then ask at the front desk - they're usually very nice, and helpful, and can point you in the direction of the best class for you to join.

 

[T.M.H.N.E.T]

^I agree with @swee'pea99. Get back into it for a while then look for a class.

I'm doing an advanced class currently. Fairly capable group of 8 so we get plenty of question time,demonstration and ultimately stroke work.

 

[Mad Doug Biker]

Thanks, that sounds encouraging!

 

[BigonaBianchi]

i keep threatening to unleash my speedos on the world down at the new pool they built here at splashpoint, and im rapidly running out of excuses...

 

[Mad Doug Biker]

The local pool has a wave machine which should (occasionally) liven things up a bit!

I'd like to eventually do open air swimming anyway, so I need to start somewhere (and the waves will come in handy).

 

[Speicher]

 

[Mad Doug Biker]

There are a couple of places I know of that do it (during the Summer, of course).

 

[EltonFrog]

My top tip for swimming. Don't Drown there's a good fellow, its awfully inconvenient, and costs a fortune to clear up the mess.

 

[jazzkat]

My wife has never been a good swimmer, then last year she took regular classes at the local pool (she could only manage a shabby doggy paddle). On this years hols she really enjoyed the pool and swam in the sea instead of just being sat on the beach or by the pool. She is so glad she can swim now.
Don't wait, join a class.

 

[Andy_R]

My top tip for swimming. Don't Drown there's a good fellow, its awfully inconvenient, and costs a fortune to clear up the mess.

you forgot to mention the paperwork

 

[EltonFrog]

you forgot to mention the paperwork

Good point, well made.

 

[Mad Doug Biker]

Good point, well made.

Indeed, it would get all wet and make a mess needing clearing up too!

 

[Stig-OT-Dump]

I googled a training plan for 1 mile. There is a 0 - . 1mile in 10 weeks program out here. It worked really well for me. I stepped up to 1600m non-stop inside the 10 weeks. Since then I have stopped and started a few times thanks to work commitments, but been able to get back up to the 64 lengths dead quick but I think that is because like most things, much of it is in the head.
You don't need to worry about diet, apart from the fact that eating just before you go in the pool is probably a bad idea.
The BBC website has to swim technique pages and video, but it can be hard to find. Also, there is a host of triathlete targeted stuff on youtube that may help you. Also watch out for free swimming technique dvds stuck to triathlon magazines.
Finally - set yourself the target of doing the Great Scottish Swim next year. There is an 800m, 1 mile or 2 mile option and an open water swim is truly marvellous!!!

 

[Pat "5mph"]

There are a couple of places I know of that do it (during the Summer, of course).

There's an open air swimming pool in how-do-you-spell-it Gourouck.
The bike ride from Glasgow to Gk, about 30 miles, is really nice along a smooth path, stunning hill views.
We could even start from Dumbarton ... (ride back, of course, after the swim)
It's a plan for next summer, along the 110 mile PfS sportive you promised doing with me next year