Day 2 - Don't Drown

I wouldn't call it swimming...

Today is the day that I have to admit I may have bit off more than I can chew when it comes to the training plan I picked.

1000 yards of freestyle swimming was prescribed.

I haven't swam continuously for 50 yards let alone 1000.

But I'm too stubborn to adjust the programming.

First though is an AM weight training session. Something I am at least good at, to build confidence after the previous evening run and upcoming splash session.

Legs on deck and I get finished around 6:00 am with a session that consisted of higher volume work.

After work I drive home, and all I can think of is the upcoming swim.

I'm excited. I love trying to improve at skills I'm bad at. Or in this case, really bad at.

I was in the pool a couple of times last week, just short technique sessions with my wife (who is a great swimmer btw), trying to not look like an injured hyena in the water.

We get to the gym around 7pm, and I slip into my new jammers. Next the swim cap and goggles go on.

"At least I look official," I say to my wife as I get into the pool and begin my 200 yards of "warm-up" laps.

9 minutes and 18 seconds later I finish those...

Next is a 400-yard swim as fast as possible. Possible seems more likely than fast.

12 minutes and 21 seconds later, after a ton of stops and water in the mouth and nose, those are finished too.

Small rest break and on to 200 more yards. Fast...no. Possible...yes.

6 minutes and that set is done.

I'm frustrated now as I get finished with these laps. My breathing is my problem. I just can't get it right and it has led me to hold my breath longer, more strokes between breaths. Not the ideal style my wife tells me.

I take my time to finish the last 200 yards and focus on the breathing aspect.

Focus on sucking less.

That's where I end the swim today. With the knowledge that I suck and need to suck less at swimming.

Good thing I have plenty of practice upcoming.

The Training Sessions

Weight Training

Running

Nutrition