If you want to be a distance swimmer, pay attention to some of the keys to success; otherwise, you'll sink. Distance swimming can be in a competitive environment or as a leisure activity. Either way, research to enhance speed and enjoyment is important. Distance swimmers must approach the sport differently than swimmers who swim short distances, as the demands differ.
Mix up Your Training
Training for distance swimming requires more than just swimming. It can get boring doing nothing but swimming, and your muscles will get complacent if you don't mix things up. According to the website Swim City, rowing, cycling, hiking, rock climbing, cross-country skiing and yoga help maintain basic fitness and keep things fun. When you get into intensive training for an upcoming long swim, your body will be prepared for the increased demands. The website states that you should only need 12 weeks to prepare for a 3-mile swim.
Prepare Mentally
Distance swimming is guaranteed to tax you physically. What can sometimes be forgotten is that it is also mentally taxing. According to endurance swimming coach David Walliams, distance swimmers can face fatigue, anger and sadness during swims, and those emotions tend to be accompanied by negative self-talk and negative images. You need to recognize that those states come and go during a long swim. Distance swimmers need to work on mental strategies that can mollify the negative images and talk, changing the images and talk to a positive tone. Record your negative thoughts and images, think of alternatives, nd then make "if-then" scenarios. If one negative thought comes along, then substitute a positive thought.
Stick to Diet
Distance swimming will expend massive amounts of energy. Give yourself the fuel necessary for distance swimming by watching what you eat. According to Lehigh University's "Fueling Swimmers" pamphlet, swimmers should eat between 3,000 and 6,000 calories each day, 2.3 to 3.6 grams of carbohydrate for each lb. of body weight, 0.55 to 0.8 grams of protein per lb. of body weight and at least 0.45 grams of fat per lb. of body weight.
Right Wetsuit
Distance swimmers must be in the water for extended periods, and that can lower body temperature. Wearing a wetsuit will insulate the body in cold water. According to the Outdoor Swimming Society, wetsuits provide two extra benefits: improved buoyancy and less drag. A good wetsuit should fit tightly and not take on water, according to the site. Silicon latex swim caps help keep your head warm, and come in neon colors, which will aid with visibility.
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