I started swimming about 3.5 months ago as a complete beginner. I’ve been hitting the pool 3 times a week and covering 2000 meters each time. My average pace is still around 2:30, and I’m really putting in the effort to improve my technique, but I’m not seeing much progress lately. I want to take lessons, but money is tight right now, hoping to get that sorted out soon.
Today while I was swimming, a coach who seemed busy with his team came over and rudely pointed out everything I was doing wrong. He said my swimming style looked terrible. I was so shocked that I didn’t respond much. After I was done, he told me again that I had a lot to learn. Now I feel really frustrated and nervous about going back to the pool. I used to enjoy swimming, but now I’m worried about looking like a total beginner and being laughed at because of my technique.
This isn’t really a question, just me venting my frustration and wanting to get it off my chest.
Forget that guy. That attitude is not what swimming is about. I swim 2000 meters too, and it doesn’t take me much less time than you. I’m really proud of my progress. You did that in just 3 months! Fantastic! It took me over a year to reach that point. Just keep following the advice you find here, watch some videos, do some drills, and try paddles for better form. We’re all still learning, and that’s a good thing. That coach can jump in the lake.
@Vic
I’ve been swimming competitively for 37 years and coached for 6. I would never insult someone making technical mistakes. Even world record holders make mistakes. Keep it up; you are doing great.
Kelsey said: @Vic
I’ve been swimming competitively for 37 years and coached for 6. I would never insult someone making technical mistakes. Even world record holders make mistakes. Keep it up; you are doing great.
Didn’t Phelps lose a gold medal because of a lazy finish? Technique matters right down to the end.
Hal said:
As a coach, I’d suggest looking up the team name and reaching out to someone in charge. They may not want someone representing them like that.
I’ve dealt with many coaches from elite teams, and many have been rude. Some are loud and direct, but they often lack tact.
Hal said:
As a coach, I’d suggest looking up the team name and reaching out to someone in charge. They may not want someone representing them like that.
That behavior is so out of line. Everyone has bad days, but taking it out on someone else is wrong. I hope you can shake it off and keep swimming. I learned a lot from videos, and reading the book Total Immersion helped me improve my technique. I enjoy swimming much more now and can go longer distances.
Seems like a jerk just trying to promote his business. If you want, record yourself and post it here for feedback. Also, share the resources you’re currently using.
Kit said:
Seems like a jerk just trying to promote his business. If you want, record yourself and post it here for feedback. Also, share the resources you’re currently using.
Maybe he was just trying to clear lanes for his team.
Kit said:
Seems like a jerk just trying to promote his business. If you want, record yourself and post it here for feedback. Also, share the resources you’re currently using.
Thanks! Phones aren’t allowed in this pool, but I might ask for an exception. I’ve been learning from YouTube and this forum. I thought my main issue was breathing, but when I tried using a snorkel, it actually made it worse. So maybe that’s not my biggest problem. I think my arm movements aren’t very effective and I might be wasting energy without gaining speed. I’m also unsure if my elbows are high enough and how to check that.
If you can go from beginner to 2000 meters in 3 months, wow, that’s impressive. Sure, you can still improve technique, but that coach is a massive jerk. I’d say he has a lot to learn about coaching.
Indie said:
If you can go from beginner to 2000 meters in 3 months, wow, that’s impressive. Sure, you can still improve technique, but that coach is a massive jerk. I’d say he has a lot to learn about coaching.
I agree! That’s awesome progress, and it’s really hard to be a beginner as an adult. Just ignore him; he doesn’t own swimming.
I understand your frustration. I’ve faced similar situations. There’s a difference between constructive feedback and just tearing someone down. It reflects poorly on him, not you.
Dean said:
I understand your frustration. I’ve faced similar situations. There’s a difference between constructive feedback and just tearing someone down. It reflects poorly on him, not you.
Exactly. Someone else gave me helpful tips a while back and pointed out the improvements. This coach only told me how bad I was without offering solutions.