photo credit: eric.surfdude on FlickrIf swimming is such a great sport, why does it need to be supplemented by "dryland" workouts?
It is BECAUSE swimming is a great sport that dryland is important because swimming uses all of the large muscle groups at the same time and continuously (without the stopping and starting common to ther sports).
Increasing cardiovascular conditioning, flexibility and strength through dryland exercises effectively enhances swimming athleticism which translates into greater performance in the pool. It is beneficial for youth swimmers and up.
The swimming body needs strong muscles, flexible joints and the stamina necessary to propel the swimmer through the water with speed. Without dryland, swimming would still allow a person to get a decent workout, but the ability to compete on a competitive level would be limited at most.
Common to dryland workouts is the cardiovascualr portion. Many different methods are used to improve cardio conditioning. Commontypes of this type of conditioning include:
- Running
- Jumping
- Rowing
- Stair Climbing
- Versaclimbing
Although the training preferences vary coach by coach, the versaclimber is appealing to many because it uses the upper and lower body (taking care of several areas at once). The versaclimber is a common piece of gym equipment and is easily confused with the Vasa Trainer which is a swim specific apparatus which is not as readily available. If you have one available to you...use it!
Dryland conditioning typically begins with the cardio portion, then progresses to flexibility and strength exercises. The conditioning cycle then moves into taper and the whole process starts over again the following program year.
For great dryland workouts, check out USMS.org and search "dryland workouts".
Comments