Joining a swim squad is like becoming part of an exclusive club where everyone shares one common passion – swimming. Age doesn’t matter when you’re all united by a love for the water. Whether you’re training for an event, beating your personal best times, or focusing on swimming faster, there’s a sense of camaraderie that’s hard to find elsewhere.
One of the unique joys of swim squads is perfecting your technique. Imagine improving your tumble turns, which can feel like being spun in a front-loading washing machine. Or think about the thrill of jumping off the blocks to the sound of a ‘Hup!’ or the blow of a whistle. It’s these little moments that make the sport so captivating.
Swimming is a sport of solitude. You spend about 80% of the time staring at the black line at the bottom of the pool and the other 20% tumbling. It’s a personal battle against the clock, but with a team by your side. Just don’t get me started on the math involved – like what 400 easy means (spoiler: it’s 200 fast freestyle and 200 easy freestyle). And don’t even ask what “easy” is supposed to mean because it certainly doesn’t feel easy!
Then there’s the jargon you learn, like what 400 UNCO means (freestyle swimming with one arm). Or hypoxic swimming, which involves holding your breath for 3, 5, 7, and 9 strokes over 400 meters. And if you didn’t know, 100 meters equals four lengths of a 25-meter pool. Confusing, right?
Let’s not forget about the swim coach. The dedicated individual who stands in the freezing cold, either early in the morning or late at night, pushing you to swim faster and faster. They’re the ones with the stopwatches, tracking record times, and sometimes even jumping in to swim with the squad, leaving you in awe of their stamina and speed.
Coaches have a unique way of motivating you. They give instructions, provide direction, and offer coaching tips at the end of each set. And if you think you can beat them, think again. They might even joke about giving pedicures to those who dare challenge them.
In conclusion, being part of a swim squad is a unique pleasure. It’s not just about the sport; it’s about the shared experience, the laughs, the challenges, and the victories, both big and small. So, dive in, embrace the cold water, and enjoy every moment with your squad. After all, it’s not just about the destination but the journey you share with your fellow swimmers.
