swimming update

Well, the Pandemic Break we are all taking from swimming has now been extended by the Governor through the end of the school year.  This means that we probably will not start any kind of season until sometime in June (hopefully).  I will keep you all up to date on the news from the school/community ed concerning possible reopening as it occurs.  For now it is important that we stay healthy by keeping our distance... but that dosen't mean you can't do anything to make yourself a better swimmer.
 

During this extended time away from the pool, it is important that you stay active and fit... let me tell you why. I tell a lot of my swimmers that come back from breaks -- short and long -- that they have gotten "soft".  You are accustomed to be burning anywhere from 1000 to 2500 additional calories during a given workout in season. Your body has been conditioned to compensate for that additional calorie burn by eating more to fuel your activity. When you are not exercising at the level your body is accustomed to, and you continue to fuel your body as if you were, your body will store the extra fuel as fat!  
 

Some of the physical gains you have accomplished have taken years of consistent effort.  The longer you are away from those productive activities, the more you will lose those gains... power, quickness, range of motion just to name a few.  It takes just a few weeks to notice some of the detrimental effects of "detraining" on those systems.  Mentally, you should be doing something to make yourself a better swimmer every day.  EVERY day, whether we are in early season, mid season, taper or break -- if swimming is important to you, and you have decided to make it a priority in your life, then you should always be doing things physically and mentally to move yourself forward and 'keep your head in the game'.  By scheduling time each day to focus on maintaining your physical fitness and metal fitness, you will be at a more optimal place once we get back in the water.
 

There are hundreds of dryland activities/ideas on the social media outlets you frequently view that can be done daily. One I have seen that looks pretty good is sponsored by mrandmrsmuscle.com.  They have a free Core and Abs workout calendar and if you follow them on instagram or facebook, you'll get a free daily workout that is a great routine to do every day.  Just following their daily posts should keep you active, build strength and flexibility, and keep you mindful that you are an athlete, working on improving yourself daily.
 

Stay healthy!
 

Coach R.J.