Swim for your life
Kyle Ediger, Special to The Gazette
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Kyle Ediger
Age: 27
Occupation: Head coach for the Emporia Aquatic Club
What I’m doing when I’m not swimming or coaching swimming: I’m studying as a full-time student at ESU, getting a degree in recreation. When I’m not studying, I like to run and watch the Royal and Chiefs.
After swimming at the U.S. Masters National Championship swim last month, I have come home with one goal in mind. No, it is not bringing home a national championship or setting a new national record. Instead, my goal is to be the 94-year-old guy swimming to the roar of applause after each race.
That is what Masters swimming is all about. No one really remembers the numerous fast times swam, but everyone remembers what happens when you watch a 92-year-old swim the 200 butterfly.
What is Masters swimming? If you are at least 18 years old and are not looking to be a professional swimmer, you can be part of Masters swimming. You can be part of Masters and not compete.
Fewer then 50 percent of Masters swimmers compete. Most Masters swimmers swim for fitness and the social environment involved with sharing a common interest.
So, now you know why I swim. Here are some reasons you should as well:
• Swimming is a low-impact exercise with little risk of injury. There is very little stress on your bones and joints because of the buoyancy in water and the fact that you weigh about a tenth of what you do on land.
• Swimming offers total body conditioning. It tones both your upper and lower body because you are using most of the major muscle groups.
• Swimming can improve blood pressure. It increases circulation.
• Swimming reduces stress. It is extremely relaxing because it allows more oxygen to flow to your muscles and forces you to regulate your breathing.
How do you get started? Here are a few things that you need:
• A swim suit. Speedos are only necessary if you want to start to compete.
• Goggles. Most sporting goods stores have goggles. The Sports Authority in Kansas City or Wichita have the best selection, or you can order them online at stores like www.swimoutlet.com.
• A pool. There are three indoor pools in Emporia. These are located at the Lee Beran Recreation Center, Emporia State University and Emporia High School. Contact these organizations for their lap swim times.
Still not convinced? Swimming is a great fitness activity to do when it is ice cold outside. When the weather turns too cold to run, walk or bike outside, head inside and hit the pool.
When starting a swimming routine you want to start slow. Your first week should consist of about 20 minutes of swimming for three days. You should slowly increase the time, distance and intensity of your swims.
If you have questions or you are interested in Masters swimming (adults) or the Emporia Aquatic Club (kids), please contact me at (785) 375-2234.
Shape Up, Emporia! is a weekly fitness and health column aimed at readers of all ages to get off the couch and get into shape. Each week will feature a fitness, health or nutrition professional from around the area who will share some friendly tips on how to improve your overall health. Our goal is to make getting in shape fun and easy to fit into your existing lifestyle and daily routine.