Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I'm a fitness/lap swimmer, why should I join Masters swimming?
A: Many fitness swimmers are reluctant to join a coached club, thinking that coached clubs are only for competitive swimmers. However, Masters swim groups are filled with swimmers of all ages and abilities. The structure and variety a coach provides benefits both fitness and competitive swimmers. Swimmers who swim on their own can find it difficult to avoid the tedium of doing the same thing week after week. Coaches are trained to provide the needed variety. Coaches also use their knowledge and experience to help with stroke technique. Swimming is a much more pleasant and rewarding experience when stroke technique improves, and when you can swim with a group of friends.
Q: How far would I swim in a workout?
A: In the Loveland Masters one-hour workout the experienced swimmers typically swim 3,000 yards. The less-experienced swimmers swim 2,500 yards. Loveland Masters does not require swimmers to finish a workout. New swimmers or swimmers returning from time off might only complete half a workout. In addition, many swimmers have work and family obligations that require leaving prior to the end of practice.
Q: Am I fast or good enough to be in Masters Swimming?
A: This is a tough question as Loveland Masters is open to all levels of swimmers. However, the early morning practices have limited learn-to-swim capabilities. As a guideline, new participants should be able to swim four lengths of the pool (100 yards) in two minutes and 30 seconds (2:30). This equates to 100 meters in 2:46. Or, over a longer distance, 500 yards in 14:00. If you feel you might not keep up with the group, the best way to see if you are comparable with the group is to come to a practice and consult with the on-deck coach.
Q: Do I have to compete?
A: No, though we certainly encourage it. Competitions (meets and open water events) are meant to test you against yourself. Some swimmers like to compete against others in the same gender and age group, but most swimmers compete just against themselves. Competition is a great way to see if your technique and fitness has improved. Many of our swimmers do compete in triathlons and meets. About a third of Loveland Masters members swim primarily for fitness and social reasons and do not compete.
Q: Do I have to wear a racing suit or Speedo?
A: You do not, though we encourage it. Snugger fitting suits for both men and women make gliding through the water more efficient.
Q: I am a triathlete and want to work on my swimming. What are my options?
A: A large percentage of our members are triathletes. Many triathletes say, "I only want to work on my Freestyle, as that's what I use in a triathlon." Loveland Masters coaches believe (as do expert triathletes and triathlon coaches) that working on all of the competitive strokes is important to becoming a better swimmer and triathlete.
