This is a question I asked myself recently, after some discussion on the TI technique with others. It is certainly not new to TI, since its inception over 20 years ago, but one that requires an answer. And, frankly, was a key question from myself, when I first began private lessons with C.O.O. of Total Immersion Swimming, Kevin Sutton. Everybody wants to swim faster, especially those well past their prime, like me!
The answer is most definitely, yes, anyone can swim faster w/ TI. Why? Well, a couple of reasons. First, TI is focused on the process of effective technique, step by step. After good balance is gained through body position in the water, further steps to reduce drag can be implemented. Thus, any time you can reduce drag improves speed. Further, faster stroke and kick turnover will not necessarily give speed, if poor technique is used. And, it will certainly negatively affect a swimmer's energy level, as well as oxygenation.
The second reason to be assured speed can result from energy saving swimming w/ TI is, the fastest swimmers consistently use the fewest number of strokes per length (SPL). For example, if you Youtube some of the Olympic races, count the number of SPL for the medalists. Specifically, the legendary gold medal victory for the US Men's 4x100 meter Freestyle Relay, was won through this principle. Jason Lezak, a self-coached Olympian, swam 8 fewer SPL than his counterpart, who was leading by more than a bodylength at the start of the anchor leg. Jason swam brilliantly, and efficiently, to touch out the world record holder in his best event.
Will TI increase my speed? Yes, but not overnight. Nothing is easy. It takes time and discipline to swim smarter using the TI method, or any method that improves your technique, for that matter. Yet, the rewards are tremendous. Not only can any competitor swim faster using TI, but will come out of the water feeling better than they ever had in the past. Word.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Still Cruisin'
TI is moving along. Next TI taster at the Y is Nov 15, from 12:15-2:15 pm. It is open to anyone, members and non-members, for FREE! It offers some classroom time, yet mostly pool time. The group lessons start earlier, Wed, Nov 5, and there is still space available. Register at 562-9622.
As I continue to expose others to TI instruction, it is great to watch the ripple effects and the buzz created. One of my newest students, who is also a personal trainer at the Y, took a lesson, and immediately felt the difference. She is an avid triathlete, with a great appreciation for health & fitness. In fact, I now have to train once in the gym for every time she takes a TI lesson. I've had my first workout emphasizing core muscles, and I am feeling it!
There is also a good possibility that TI programs will be offered at the new Rex Wellness in the Wakefield subdivision in North Raleigh, scheduled to open Jan 1st. This will be a state of the art wellness facility, with a 25 yd pool, as well as a warm therapy pool. What is unique about this facility is that it is medically based, and includes folks undergoing some sort of rehab. Of course, it is also offered to the community. I am very amped about the possiblility of teaching Total Immersion as a part of Rex Wellness, both private and group lessons. In 2001, Rachel was born at Rex, and one month later I underwent surgery to have a cardiac defibrillator implanted. So, you could say that Rex is close to my heart.
As I continue to expose others to TI instruction, it is great to watch the ripple effects and the buzz created. One of my newest students, who is also a personal trainer at the Y, took a lesson, and immediately felt the difference. She is an avid triathlete, with a great appreciation for health & fitness. In fact, I now have to train once in the gym for every time she takes a TI lesson. I've had my first workout emphasizing core muscles, and I am feeling it!
There is also a good possibility that TI programs will be offered at the new Rex Wellness in the Wakefield subdivision in North Raleigh, scheduled to open Jan 1st. This will be a state of the art wellness facility, with a 25 yd pool, as well as a warm therapy pool. What is unique about this facility is that it is medically based, and includes folks undergoing some sort of rehab. Of course, it is also offered to the community. I am very amped about the possiblility of teaching Total Immersion as a part of Rex Wellness, both private and group lessons. In 2001, Rachel was born at Rex, and one month later I underwent surgery to have a cardiac defibrillator implanted. So, you could say that Rex is close to my heart.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
TI at the Y has officially begun!
I am delighted to say that TI has officially begun as part of the aquatics program at the Kerr YMCA in North Raleigh, near Wake Forest. The first "TI taster" included a total of 6 participants, including coaches. Skills ranged from beginning to very advanced swimmers. It was rewarding to learn as an instructor to teach each technique sufficiently to varying levels of swimming ability. Great thing about TI is that regardless of how fast or slow someone is, they can improve and enhance their swimming efficiency. Yesterday was an ideal example of the difference just 2 hours can make.
Our beginner focused on appropriately getting her face in the water, then moved right into drills. She quickly learned that being shown specifically how to move through the water provides confidence and minimizes anxiety. She stated that registering for TI lessons starting Nov. 5th was officially going on her calendar!
Though the advanced student was so, shall we say, advanced already in competitive swimming, what could happen? The key is to take someone who is better (than many others) and lead them to their best. For this former NC State swimmer, there are simple principles that, when put into practice, yield positive external and internal results. The external being in fewer strokes needed to swim one length (SPL), possessing more energy internally. So, distance and open water swimming become tremendous opportunities for swimming to bring quality of life. Finally, hearing him say "I am feeling the difference," is the big reward, and what keeps us TI coaches going.
Our beginner focused on appropriately getting her face in the water, then moved right into drills. She quickly learned that being shown specifically how to move through the water provides confidence and minimizes anxiety. She stated that registering for TI lessons starting Nov. 5th was officially going on her calendar!
Though the advanced student was so, shall we say, advanced already in competitive swimming, what could happen? The key is to take someone who is better (than many others) and lead them to their best. For this former NC State swimmer, there are simple principles that, when put into practice, yield positive external and internal results. The external being in fewer strokes needed to swim one length (SPL), possessing more energy internally. So, distance and open water swimming become tremendous opportunities for swimming to bring quality of life. Finally, hearing him say "I am feeling the difference," is the big reward, and what keeps us TI coaches going.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Oops, small change in plans
We've had to adjust the start times for the TI lessons at they Y. All the paperwork for getting this off the ground, or in the water, has been a little cumbersome. I know, hard to believe red tape slows the process.
No worries, since the TI taster is scheduled for this Saturday from 12:15 - 2:30 pm, and already has 5 students. This will give an overall intro to the philosophy and techniques of TI, and interested swimmers can then sign up for lessons. This is really a better order for the programs, the lessons following the taster.
I also have begun scheduling more students for private lessons, so the word is getting out there. If you want to find out more or refer someone with questions, 919/757-1230 (c).
Discover & choose your inner fish - dolphin, barracuda, blue marlin, hammerhead shark, or even beta fish...since all fish swim way more efficiently than the rest of us!
No worries, since the TI taster is scheduled for this Saturday from 12:15 - 2:30 pm, and already has 5 students. This will give an overall intro to the philosophy and techniques of TI, and interested swimmers can then sign up for lessons. This is really a better order for the programs, the lessons following the taster.
I also have begun scheduling more students for private lessons, so the word is getting out there. If you want to find out more or refer someone with questions, 919/757-1230 (c).
Discover & choose your inner fish - dolphin, barracuda, blue marlin, hammerhead shark, or even beta fish...since all fish swim way more efficiently than the rest of us!
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Countdown 4 days til TI at the YMCA
Well, I am so glad that the day is almost here. The lessons offered at the Kerr Family YMCA start this Wednesday, and will last for 3 weeks, a total of 6 lessons. Wed from 7-8 pm and Sat 2:30-3:30 pm. Next Sat the 18th is also the first TI taster from 12:15 to 2:25 pm, which resembles a clinic environment, introducing the TI philosophy and techniques. Anyone, member and non-member, is encouraged to sign up. Call 562-9622 and ask about the TI taster and/or lessons!
Thursday, October 9, 2008
TI in Pensacola
So, TI traveled to Pensacola, FL. Well, sort of. I went to Pensacola to perform a wedding ceremony for a good friend, and we stayed on the beach. It was tough work. Truth is, I am also an ordained minister, for anyone who didn't know already, or may even care. So, this gave me the privilege to preside over a beautiful ceremony for a fantastic couple, Mike and Mary Gifford.
While there, we had some down time, so I felt obligated to swim in the ocean. I was excited to utilize my TI skills in the open water, to see how I held up. I have always had a fear of swimming in the ocean, for a variety of reasons-lack of confidence, difficulty seeing, jellyfish, and great whites. Interestingly enough, I learned from some locals, after I swam in the ocean 2x, that sharks are common visitors to Pensacola Beach, and the adjoining bay.
So, what happened? Well, I didn't lose any limbs, thankfully. And, I had the best experience in ocean water that I can remember. I felt so much more confident swimming in the riptide, now that I'm equipped with the skills to swim effectively. Though it was challenging during the rough currents, it was gratifying to stay out there, and feel more safe and in control than I ever had. TI works.
While there, we had some down time, so I felt obligated to swim in the ocean. I was excited to utilize my TI skills in the open water, to see how I held up. I have always had a fear of swimming in the ocean, for a variety of reasons-lack of confidence, difficulty seeing, jellyfish, and great whites. Interestingly enough, I learned from some locals, after I swam in the ocean 2x, that sharks are common visitors to Pensacola Beach, and the adjoining bay.
So, what happened? Well, I didn't lose any limbs, thankfully. And, I had the best experience in ocean water that I can remember. I felt so much more confident swimming in the riptide, now that I'm equipped with the skills to swim effectively. Though it was challenging during the rough currents, it was gratifying to stay out there, and feel more safe and in control than I ever had. TI works.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
I swam against a 10 year old?
Well, I swam in another masters meet, a tiring but rewarding experience. Tiring due to the many hours spent working on my butterfly technique in the days leading up to the meet. Swimming fly was more about reaching a new goal, and increasing my ability in a weaker stroke. Normally, I would relish swimming the 50 & 100 backstroke, and place better, too. But, it's not all about winning.
The facility was exceptional, and the participants were as numerous as the sand on the seashore. Kids and adults of all ages were there, representing many local and out of town swim teams. The old folks, like me, were mixed in w/ everyone else. What a sight to see me on the starting blocks with 7 other boys, ranging in ages from 10 to 15. Not sure what place I came in the 100 fly, but got 4th in my heat for the 50. I'll find out later how I did in my age group.
I also met some great people, including many masters swimmers. One even swims at the same Y as I do. Of course, I shared about my new journey with Total Immersion with anyone willing to listen. You didn't think I went there just to swim, did you?
The facility was exceptional, and the participants were as numerous as the sand on the seashore. Kids and adults of all ages were there, representing many local and out of town swim teams. The old folks, like me, were mixed in w/ everyone else. What a sight to see me on the starting blocks with 7 other boys, ranging in ages from 10 to 15. Not sure what place I came in the 100 fly, but got 4th in my heat for the 50. I'll find out later how I did in my age group.
I also met some great people, including many masters swimmers. One even swims at the same Y as I do. Of course, I shared about my new journey with Total Immersion with anyone willing to listen. You didn't think I went there just to swim, did you?
Thursday, September 25, 2008
100 Butterfly
It is always important to practice what you preach, wouldn't you say? I agree, so I am swimming the 50 and 100 yd butterfly this Saturday in a Masters swim meet at the TAC. Raleigh Swimming Association is hosting the "Sprint Shootout" meet, which begins at 11:00 am. Since I learned butterfly TI style at my teacher training, it only makes sense to try it out. Truth is, I was encouraged by others who saw me train in NY, to participate in fly events, something I've never done. So, I can say with all truth that Total Immersion has opened doors for me that were previously closed. A heart transplant patient swimming a 100 fly? Miracles exist.
Latest news on Total Immersion Raleigh
Well, starting a business if a full-time job, for sure. It has been exciting exploring all the opportunities for teaching TI. I have a meeting with the owner of Inside Out Sports this week, to discuss the possibility of providing programming for his Endless Pool. This would be a terrific place to instruct triathletes, through private, semi-private & group lessons. "Easy Freestlye" workshops on Saturdays would be a big hit!
I also have an appt with the aquatics director of the Triangle Aquatics Complex (TAC) in Cary, and have plans to discuss options with Rex Wellness. These are where potential lies, but the YMCA is a sure thing. Lessons begin mid-October, and members & non-members can sign up. Kerr YMCA at 562-9622.
I also have an appt with the aquatics director of the Triangle Aquatics Complex (TAC) in Cary, and have plans to discuss options with Rex Wellness. These are where potential lies, but the YMCA is a sure thing. Lessons begin mid-October, and members & non-members can sign up. Kerr YMCA at 562-9622.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
TI is how I roll
So, here's the deal. I am set to begin as a Teaching Professional for TI Swimming. Jacked up about it? Yes! Three areas brewing at the moment:
First, the YMCA, where TI lessons will begin in October. Three week courses with two 1 hour lessons/week. One Saturday/month will include a two hour "TI taster." The taster can introduce the key principles and swimming focal points for an athlete to feel the initial benefit of TI, as well as discern if they wish to pursue futher instruction and/or workshops. The plan is to host weekend workshops at the Kerr YMCA beginning in the spring.
Secondly, I will be meeting with the owner of a local triathlete store that has an Endless Pool. We are submitting a proposal to offer programming in this unique learning environment. This is a very exciting opportunity, so will keep you all posted.
Third is private lessons. My first lesson is this Saturday with another swimmer committed to them, also. Thanks for reading.
First, the YMCA, where TI lessons will begin in October. Three week courses with two 1 hour lessons/week. One Saturday/month will include a two hour "TI taster." The taster can introduce the key principles and swimming focal points for an athlete to feel the initial benefit of TI, as well as discern if they wish to pursue futher instruction and/or workshops. The plan is to host weekend workshops at the Kerr YMCA beginning in the spring.
Secondly, I will be meeting with the owner of a local triathlete store that has an Endless Pool. We are submitting a proposal to offer programming in this unique learning environment. This is a very exciting opportunity, so will keep you all posted.
Third is private lessons. My first lesson is this Saturday with another swimmer committed to them, also. Thanks for reading.
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