@Tristan
Kicking only 2-3 times a week can significantly boost the next generation of swimmers! Many teams are realizing this and incorporating more kick training.
This is great advice! Seems simple, but people really need to hear it.
People say 8 hours of sleep is ideal, but I like your 10 hours. Can I just split it with two naps?
Rey said:
People say 8 hours of sleep is ideal, but I like your 10 hours. Can I just split it with two naps?
I don’t see why not. I would get 7-8 hours at night, then take a 1-2 hour nap after morning practice. Sometimes 3-hour naps if I had a free day!
Thanks for the post, I really needed this. I’m going through a tough phase with my performance not improving, struggling to enjoy swimming, and just finding it hard to keep going with the sport.
I hope this will pass.
@Darian
That’s more common than you think. Even pros like Caeleb Dressel go through it. If you’re feeling off, take a break. I took a few months off, and when I got back in, the motivation returned.
Number 5 is very underrated. In college, even though I wasn’t on the swim team, I trained for 3-4 hours on weekdays with barely enough sleep. Now that I’m older, I realize I’d probably injure myself if I tried that now.
I got bicep tendonitis from swimming, and my PT stressed the importance of sleep. Many athletes overlook it, but it’s crucial for recovery. If I’m lacking sleep, I don’t swim. I’m still in my mid-20s, but age doesn’t protect you from injuries. Rest is really key.
What kick drills would you recommend? My kicks are weak and I get tired easily. Thanks!
Sun said:
What kick drills would you recommend? My kicks are weak and I get tired easily. Thanks!
There aren’t many specific drills for kicking. But I suggest getting fins and kicking with a kickboard. It will help you develop a feel for the water and improve your positioning.