Finding perfect balance is not only for gymnasts, but also swimmers. Last night there were 7 swimmers for the 2nd group of TI lessons at Kerr YMCA, ranging in age from 15 to 66 yrs old, at various skill levels. From the beginner to triathlete, all expressed a desire for their swimming to be less "work." Thankfully, they came to the perfect place, TI, in the only Y in NC that offers TI instruction.
We start with how to effectively glide. This may sound unimportant, or even nitpicky, yet it is profoundly significant in achieving balance in the water. The first critical element in proper body alignment is have a relaxed head position. The Superman glide has arms outstretched as extensions of the shoulders, with the head allowing the water to hold it in place. The result, each swimmer learns that water will hold you in place when you cooperate with it, and they find themselves further from the wall than before.
Sounds simple. It is. Anyone reading can try for yourself, by relaxing your head in the water, deactivating any neck muscles, and gently stretch arms straight ahead from your shoulders (head resting b/t them). You'll have the same results as the Y swimmers, balance is found in the water with minimal effort. Balance is the beginning of the end of swimming as "work."
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