fishtailing while swimming?

[Becky]

That's a very good point...there's definitely less "checking out" going on at the pool, compared to the fitness machines.

This is going to sound sooo silly, but much of my self-consciousness stems from the fact that I usually have to share the pool with the swim team kids. Nothing like being out-swum by 8-year olds to do a number on your self-confidence...and yes, I'm fully aware that they and their coaches don't give a darn about me. Combine that with the fact that I couldn't swim well enough to be a swim team kid when I was that age and all of my classmates did....

Maybe it's time to get over myself.

[Bike Chick]

I don't know how old you are, Becky, but I think of it this way: How many women your age are even in the pool swimming laps? Be proud of your accomplishments. Look back at where you were a year ago and see how much progress you have made. I bet it's a lot.

As far as fishtailing goes, we videotaped ourselves in the pool Saturday morning and what we saw was amazing. I snake through the water in a zig-zag. Would it have anything to do with only breathing on one side? I did bilateral breathing drills this morning and really concentrated on swimming straight. Does anyone know if that makes a difference?

[Becky]

Bike Chick, you're absolutely right. I need to remember that I could be parked on the couch, watching Law and Order reruns, and instead I'm working hard and getting stronger. (Thanks for the kick in the butt )

I'm pleased to say that I had 2 good swims this weekend. I really focused on spearing the extended hand forward, pulling my shoulders back, and keeping my core engaged. I don't know if I looked any better, but I certainly felt better, faster, and more comfortable.

I think that bilateral breathing would definitely help. This article explains it far better than I can.