Any swimmers here?
Hi!
Okay, so, I'm joining my high school's swim team and I'll be attending the first practice on the day when we get back from winter break. On that day, I'm gonna be timed and my coach will decide what team I will be placed on. The thing is, I haven't swam in like five years lol. My goal is to try to get a decent time because I use to do competitive (very little because I was playing basketball too) and I want to prove to my coach that I'll be a good rookie and willing to improve on her team.
So, uh. What should I do to prepare myself for that day? Workouts, improving strokes, stuff like that. Right now, I'm hoping I could get a one-on-one lesson with someone from the rec center because there are no group lessons over the break. If not, then that leaves with only lap swims, but I'm afraid of like drowning while I'm practice on my own lmao. Plus, could I also have tips on a proper freestyle flip turn? Not gonna lie, I had trouble with that one because I always had a fear that I'd hit my head against the wall when turning.
Thanks a lot!
8 Comments • Newest first
Heya, I just finished my first season of swim on my last year of high school. Never swam competively before hand and the only experience I had was doggie paddle in my old house when I was in elementary school. First year swimmer with no experience and I faired 26 second 50m freestyle and 58 second 100m freestyle. I was also awarded the golden award from my coaches at my swim banquet (this reward was created especially for me because I was most improved varsity swimmer, most valuable swimmer, most inspirational in and put of the pool, etc.) All this and I was a rookie swimmer my first year. The best adivce I can give is listen to the coaches, if he's doing timed trials the first day then aim for the freestyle lane for your first year.
As for flip turns I had THE hardest time learning them. Best way I do them is to tuck your knees to your chest, forehead to knees, and flip forward. When I flip forward I do small rapid arm circles going backwards to counterbalance the body flip forward so I can be stabilized.
Remember, when you get on the team pay close attention the what the coaches are saying, don't cut sets at all finish every one (everyone on my team was notorious for stopping a couple sets early), and strive to make all your set times no matter how hard they get.
Try running on a track-field to work your lungs, work on your form for half of your practices then work on drills. Best of luck in this treacherous sport.
i used to do competitive swimming during high school, my school was pretty decent. If you're afraid of drowning in any situation you might want to reconsider this swimming thing ... or at the very least get more practice, which you want to. Best of luck
I used to swim a lot. Like, 3 years ago.
i can swim 35 sec 50 free style without flip turns & on empty stomach ( im on my high school swim team )
just work on your cardio for dem long events (laps back&forth) or if you plan to do quick races like 50m then stretch out ur muscals and work on technique.
Honestly? I've never been into swimming, it KILLS me. Although it is an amazing sport and exercise. The only way to get better is to practice, practice, practice. Now that you're on a break try swimming every day. My college swimming team swims about 2.5 miles every day. Try starting out with 1 mile, then push it up. Work your way up weekly and you'll build good resistance and technique.
Bang the coach, "prove" yourself to her
watch youtube videos. Better way to learn imo