Since the last time I wrote about swimming, I have reached a few milestones with my new hobby. I have been swimming more everyday, whilst keeping on top of my studies, whilst speeding up my swimming. The furthest I’ve swam so far is 60 laps of 25 metres, it doesn’t seem much, and there’s a lot of room for improvement. However, feeling more and more confident is a massive bonus.
If you’re like me, and want to build on your stamina, here are some tips:
1. Increase your endurance by swimming more often and for longer distances. Focus on building up your endurance by swimming longer distances, such as 25-50 meters.
2. Improve your technique by focusing on body position, arm stroke, kick and breathing. This will help you swim more efficiently and conserve energy.
3. Interval training is an effective way to increase your swimming stamina. Try swimming intervals of varying lengths and intensity levels.
4. Increase your strength by doing resistance training exercises, such as pull-ups, push-ups and squats. This will help you develop the muscle power needed to swim faster and for longer distances.
5. Eat a balanced diet that consists of carbohydrates, proteins and healthy fats. This will provide you with the energy you need to swim at your highest level.
6. Make sure you are getting enough sleep to ensure your body is well-rested and ready to swim.
7. Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated during a swim session.
I do swimming in my own way, I bring water bottles to keep myself hydrated, whilst ensuring my swimming costumes are more efficient. A downside I’ve noticed after swimming is struggling to sleep, as well as very dry hands and face. As someone will raynauds syndrome, I have struggled with this. Every night I have been putting on Vaseline, almost caking my hands in it and then putting them in some cheap cotton gloves I found on EBay! Life saver ~ well hand saver!!
Some tips I have for you after swimming is…
1. Make sure to shower after swimming. This will help remove chlorine and other contaminants from your skin.
2. Hydrate. Drinking water after swimming is essential to rehydrate your body and avoid dehydration.
3. Stretch your muscles. After swimming, take some time to stretch your body to help reduce muscle soreness. I definitely didn’t do this to begin with and suffered badly as I couldn’t swim for days as I was in so much pain.
4. Eat a snack. Eating a light snack after swimming will help replenish your body with energy and nutrients.
5. Avoid caffeine. Caffeine can make it harder to fall asleep and can disrupt your sleep cycle.
6. Create a relaxing environment. Make sure your bedroom is dark and quiet, and keep the temperature cool.
7. Take a warm bath. Taking a warm bath can help you relax and make it easier to fall asleep.
8. Read a book. Reading a book can help distract your mind and make it easier to fall asleep.
9. Avoid screens. Looking at screens before bedtime can make it harder to fall asleep.
10. Get comfortable. Make sure your bed and pillows are comfortable and that you are wearing comfortable clothing.
I hope you enjoyed reading this swimming blog, and happy swimming!!
The Unconfident Swimmer :) x