Ask the Swim Doctor

by Dr. Paul Hutinger

QUESTION: Are there other benefits that can be derived from Masters swimming, other than cardiovascular?

ANSWER: Yes, there are benefits from a regular Masters program, many of which tend to be overlooked. Scott Rabalais, 1996 Coach of the Year and present Savannah, GA Masters Coach, lists an all inclusive combination of nine benefits:

• cardiovascular conditioning
• strength
• technique
• flexibility
• kinesthetic ability
• nutrition
• rest
• knowledge of swimming
• motivation/psychology

A Masters swimmer, who had never trained before, discovered that his enhanced performance capability from swimming workouts carried over to his business. At his business meetings, he would look around at the group of out-of-shape and overweight partners and he felt more confident about his self-esteem.

A former average college swimmer discovered that his Masters training program gave him more power and strength and he had greater successes at meets. As he reflected later on in life, he realized how much his Masters training and successful performances in swimming increased his self-confidence in his ability which benefited his career as an investing consultant.

Many Masters do not have the time or motivation to follow Rabalais' guidelines. However, many items can be part of a healthy lifestyle, like training (at whatever level satisfies you), nutrition and rest. There are many benefits from these basic principles, which are known by most who have been in the program.

One area unknown to many is the benefit to the brain. Many of you know about endomorphs and the runner's or swimmer's high. Many sufferers of depression take drugs like prozac to normalize the serotonin in the brain. Research has demonstrated that aerobic exercise, like swim training, increases serotonin levels which combat depression. The potential dangers of mood altering drugs neurotoxicity can also be avoided.

Social opportunities are available after workouts and meets.

Many former age group swimmers have complained about their unpleasant early swimming experiences and didn't ever want to compete again. In Masters, they've discovered that they are responsible for their own program, at their own level and can fit in their workouts around their jobs and family. Masters is different than age group swimming, for both the coach and the swimmers, and should be a refreshing change of pace.

Talking during your intervals is also important for an overall positive therapy and improvement in neurogenesis. While it was not allowed during age group practices, Masters see it as a positive force to talk at times, and should be encouraged for interaction and stress relief.

Anyone wanting more info, please send a large SASE to: Dr. Paul Hutinger; 1755 Georgia Ave. NE; St. Petersburg, FL 33703.