Since my heel has taken a turn for the worse, I’ve decided to offset running with swimming and biking.
Running is almost non-existent in my weekly routine for now (though I did go out and do the Color Dash 5k to end Stroke).
So, I started to get out and cycle 10-20 miles a day. But then my bike broke down and ended up in the shop for a week. Now with running out of the picture and cycling on hold, I forced myself to get a pass to the local LA Fitness. Why? Just to use the pool, of course!
I’ve gone everyday so far and each swim has been at least a mile. I went crazy the first day doing almost 2 miles, since I just kept on going and going. Now I’m not that crazy and try to keep it under an hour. I even tried splits and different exercises, but it’s all just so confusing when you’re under water only trying to think (and remember) to hold your breath!!!
Of course I wanted to see how I compare to others. After all, the last time I took swimming seriously it was about 20 (or 40) years ago! The great news is that while I’m not the fastest swimmer at 35-36 min/mile, it does ‘almost’ put me into a Masters 2 Ability to try some neat workouts. Yoo-hoo!
So while I can’t run for now, at least I can set a short-term goal to improve my swimming.
As for cycling?
Yeah! I just got my bike back, so tomorrow morning I’ll hit the pavement (after tonight’s swim, of course!).
Hi..this is my problem: my lower back, I love running but I can’t, I mean I can run for 3 weeks but then my back start “screaming”. Someone told me that swimming could be the solution but my question is will I lose weight if I swim instead of running? (I’m not fat..I wanna keep in shape…forever)
Sure – swimming is good for toning. But as for losing weight, you still need to do the cardio workout (but in the water). Best way to do that is to do different laps, splits, speed-work, etc. It makes the swim more enjoyable, you get faster, and you’re getting the cardio up to lose some weight. Make sure the water’s warm though. This will keep your muscles warm and less chance to pulling your back as well. Good luck!