Discussion
I would echo the comments of building up your technique before trying longer distances. Take a look at swimming.org they have lots of programmes on there for beginners up to advanced swimming. I'm currently doing the Thames challenge which is over 200 miles (think I've covered 4% so far)!
I swam the Channel last July as part of a relay and whilst our training was quite intense we started by swimming for 20mins non stop then increased it to 30mins, 40mins etc..
I swam the Channel last July as part of a relay and whilst our training was quite intense we started by swimming for 20mins non stop then increased it to 30mins, 40mins etc..
dangerousB said:
Next time you guys are in the pool, concentrate more on fully breathing out underwater, rather than just breathing in (as most people do).
Emptying your lungs on every exhale will help prevent CO2 building up in your bloodstream, which I'm guessing is why 2 lengths is your limit.
What happens with most people new to front crawl is that they are so focussed on breathing in (understandably!) that they forget to breathe out properly. CO2 builds up to a point (which doesn't take long) that triggers the gasp reflex . . . this is an autonomic response and you can't control it. Result? You gasp for air and naturally think it's because you're "knackered". You're not though (well not in the same sense as if it happened whilst running).
I guarantee that this one simple exercise will give you a huge boost in your confidence and ability to swim further.
Oh, and if you want to make life easier don't swim heads-up!!
Thanks mate. I don't think I'm doing that on crawl I think I've been breathing in and out when I turn my head out of the water. Emptying your lungs on every exhale will help prevent CO2 building up in your bloodstream, which I'm guessing is why 2 lengths is your limit.
What happens with most people new to front crawl is that they are so focussed on breathing in (understandably!) that they forget to breathe out properly. CO2 builds up to a point (which doesn't take long) that triggers the gasp reflex . . . this is an autonomic response and you can't control it. Result? You gasp for air and naturally think it's because you're "knackered". You're not though (well not in the same sense as if it happened whilst running).
I guarantee that this one simple exercise will give you a huge boost in your confidence and ability to swim further.
Oh, and if you want to make life easier don't swim heads-up!!
Actually also probably explains why I've been going dizzy after I stop.
theshrew said:
Tiggsy said:
Lessons? My mother has coached adult beginners for years. Huge number that never learnt right as kids and now struggle.
I did think about lessons of some sort - its not like I can't swim Its more polishing off my technique I think. 
theshrew said:
I tried it out today and it seemed a bit better. Think i need to practice it as i think i was thinking about breathing to much and ended up going to fast
I might be adding swimming back to my week.http://www.streamlinesports.co.uk/Front-Swimming-S...
The above sounds intriguing.
If you plan on swimming more than a once a week splash about, lessons are by far the best thing to do.
It's not about whether you can swim or not, it's how efficiently you swim. There is so much resistance in water that by using the wrong technique, the fittest person in the world will simply not be able to swim quickly and comfortably. The longer you persist in having a go, the more ingrained the bad habits become too, and so on. I should know. I've hit a classic plateau and without serious technique work, will simply not get any faster.
If you're in any doubt, watch a junior swim session. 12 year olds with almost zero strength compared to adults, firing up and down the pool at incredible speeds.
It's not about whether you can swim or not, it's how efficiently you swim. There is so much resistance in water that by using the wrong technique, the fittest person in the world will simply not be able to swim quickly and comfortably. The longer you persist in having a go, the more ingrained the bad habits become too, and so on. I should know. I've hit a classic plateau and without serious technique work, will simply not get any faster.
If you're in any doubt, watch a junior swim session. 12 year olds with almost zero strength compared to adults, firing up and down the pool at incredible speeds.
Halb said:
When I do front crawl I prefer to keep my fave out of the water. Can't really do that breath every four strokes thing.
As a 6 day a week early morning swimmer, can I suggest that on front crawl, always breathe on odd number of strokes, either 3 or 5, whichever you feel best with. That way you turn your head to a different side ever breath. Stops neck stiffness and much better for neck muscles. TwigtheWonderkid said:
As a 6 day a week early morning swimmer, can I suggest that on front crawl, always breathe on odd number of strokes, either 3 or 5, whichever you feel best with. That way you turn your head to a different side ever breath. Stops neck stiffness and much better for neck muscles.
I am gonna buy a pair of goggles from Tesco or somehwrre and have a crack at it.Halb said:
TwigtheWonderkid said:
As a 6 day a week early morning swimmer, can I suggest that on front crawl, always breathe on odd number of strokes, either 3 or 5, whichever you feel best with. That way you turn your head to a different side ever breath. Stops neck stiffness and much better for neck muscles.
I am gonna buy a pair of goggles from Tesco or somehwrre and have a crack at it.
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