Getting Back in the Water

The time is at hand and some of our pools are finally opening up. Is everybody ready?

To be clear, each of us needs to decide what our comfort level is regarding COVID-19. Despite the fact that more and more facets of daily life seem to be returning to normal, we should be aware that there is still some risk. Know yourself and your pool facility’s ability to keep everyone safe. Do what feels right to you…the pool will still be there later if you decide now is not the right time to get back in.

I know we are all eager to get back into the water, but let us also take a minute or two to consider a few things. This year has been a doozy, and it has impacted our schedules and ability to work out. As such, it is important to make a realistic assessment of where each of us is physically.

If you haven’t been lucky enough to keep in shape in a local lake somewhere, take some time to get reacquainted with the water and the skills and muscles used to swim; easing back into a regular swimming routine will help avoid injuries. The first few pool workouts should be done in moderation with longer sets to stretch out and plenty of rest when doing short sprints. Let your body remember what it feels like to swim, then build the workouts from there.

Another key factor is going to be mental. Each of us was ready for a stellar year competing under the TWIM banner and then everything came to a screeching halt. The speed and endurance that we possessed before the COVID crisis struck may not necessarily be there now.

Get in the pool again with the realization that you may not be able to go as fast – or as far – as you did previously. This is natural and to be expected; do not let this defeat you. Remember to be kind to yourself and take advantage of this opportunity to build your endurance and speed on a foundation of good technique.

Instead of rushing to regain everything at once, look to incorporate perfect practice into your routine to ensure that your return to glory is not only about strength and endurance but also about being technically sound.

In closing, I am so happy that we again have the opportunity to put into practice our team’s credo:

• We Believe in United States Masters Swimming, in its Principles and Guiding Spirit.
• We Believe in Swimming as a Way of Life.
• We Believe in Fun, Friendship and Striving for Aquatic Excellence through Local, National and International Competition.
• We will Always Embrace the Opportunity to Get Up on the Blocks and Give it Our All for Ourselves and For Our Teammates.

Go TWIM!