Explore 2019: Lap Swimming

Back in October I posted about ordering a new swim kit. I *finally* bought my pool membership and got in the water to explore (my #2019 word) whether my body could still do laps! It's been 14 years; my last time swimming laps was when I was almost 42 weeks pregnant with Laurel (I was doing my postdoc at MIT at the time and had access to their incredible pool).

It's always a little nerve wracking walking into something new...should I bring a lock for a locker? Will I get yelled at if I bring a small tote on the swim deck? How the heck do I get into the pool anyway?

But none of these little things are really a big deal, or enough of a deal to not do something. I had no idea what kind of goal to set for myself so I figured, how about 10 pool lengths?

I started with 4 lengths, just using a kickboard to get my legs warmed up. And then I figured I would try to do the 10 lengths in the following pyramid sequence: 2 backstroke, 2 breast, 2 crawl, 2 breast, 2 backstroke. I got through the first 6 lengths and was EXHAUSTED. So I did the remaining 4 laps as 3 backstroke, 1 breaststroke.

And wow, it felt FANTASTIC. Obviously, I'm at square 1 in terms of stamina but I love the water. It's easy on the joints. You have no choice but to focus on your breath. I find it peaceful. I'm glad I didn't let logistical uncertainty get in the way of exploration.