Keeping in shape
Question
Hi Mr. Watson, thanks for your time. I've recently been offered an all-expense paid 6-week summer camp, and I just can't pass this up. My problem is that that means I won't be able to swim for 2 months (our facility only lets us pay per month). I train at the national level and this is a deep concern for me, because my season will start again in August (I will be off until August). I won't have access to a pool, but I will be able to spend 45ish minutes of my morning as I wish, and I want to put my time towards keeping myself in as good shape as possible. What kind of dryland/cardio can I do to maintain the shape I'm in now? Thanks!
Answer
Hi,
It is very difficult to replicate any kind of fitness relevant to swimming as you know it is a very specific sport.
I think the only thing you can do is a high amount of aerobics most days and may be some general body weight exercises like press ups and sit-ups. Also if you have access to a gym you can perform swimming like motions.
I would do a lot of back exercises (lat pull downs, rowing, straight arm press with a bar, bent over rowing with a T bar etc...). For the weight exercises, perform with a high amount of re4ps, say 5 sets of 20, so you keep fitness and do not bulk up or tighten muscles. Be sure to stretch afterwards as well to maintain flexibility.
Thanks.
Swimming troubles/plateau
Fear of Going Under Water