How do you calculate your swimming zone?
What is a Swim Zone?
A swimming zone is the area in the water that your body occupies while swimming. It includes the space around your shoulders, head, stomach, and legs — a kind of cube of flowing water you're in while you swim.. This zone is essential for achieving a natural feeling while swimming. The concept of the swimming zone is often used in the design of counter-current pools and is crucial for a pleasant swimming experience, which is why understanding and calculating it is very important for swimmers at every level.
The Meaning of Laminar Flow
The quality of your swimming zone depends a lot on the type of current in the pool. For the ideal swimming zone, a laminar flowing water stream without turbulence is crucial. A laminar-flowing swimming zone means that the water flows in a structured way, without swirls or interruptions that can interfere with the swimmer.
The Importance of the Swimming Zone
An optimally designed swimming area offers several advantages. It provides constant resistance while swimming, which is essential for effective training, and contributes to safety by creating a stable environment. What's more, a good swimming zone equals more swimming fun because it mimics the thrill of swimming in open water.
Dimensions of the Swim Zone
The size of the swimming area varies depending on the pool design and model. In the case of countercurrent systems designed by Swimm, for example, the dimensions of the swimming zone may be 50 cm by 50 cm or 60 cm by 40 cm. This is the space in which the flow of water is most powerful and consistent.
Calculating Your Swimming Zone
To calculate your swimming zone, you need to pay attention to a few important factors such as your height, swimming style, and the intensity of your swim training. Here's an easy guide to calculating your own swimming zone:
- Measurement of your height: This determines the length of the swimming zone. Extend the distance a few inches more than your actual height for comfortable room to move.
- Width depending on your swimming style: For example, butterfly stroke requires a wider zone than breaststroke.
- Swimming intensity: If you're training for speed or competition, you need a larger and more consistent flow that matches higher speeds.
Essential Tips for Using the Swim Zone
- Take variables into account: A swimming zone is not static; it can change depending on the situation and the type of training you do.
- Performance improvement: Focus on swimming techniques that maximize the effectiveness of the swimming zone and make sure your training sessions are tailored accordingly.
- Use of technology: Advanced countercurrent systems can provide real-time data and adjustments to optimize your swim zone for each workout.
Setting Up Your Training in the Swimming Zone
Your training should be designed in line with the dimensions of your swimming zone to maximize your efficiency and fitness. This requires a strategic approach in developing training routines. Here are some considerations:
- Strength and Resistance: Exercises that exploit the resistance in your swimming zone strengthen your muscles and improve explosive strength.
- Technique and Agility: Drills that focus on swimming techniques help you become more agile, with the swimming zone providing you with support and feedback.
- Endurance: By adjusting the current in your swimming zone, you can simulate long-distance workouts that build endurance.
- quickness: Interval training in a varied swimming zone can help you increase your speed by balancing effort and recovery.
- breathing: Use the predictable flow in the swim zone to refine your breathing techniques, which is essential for every stroke.
Conclusion
Setting up and using your swimming zone efficiently can mean the difference between an ordinary swimming experience and an exceptional one. It's the key to improved performance, comfort, and fun. With the steps mentioned above, you can calculate your personal swimming zone and use it wisely in your swimming routine. Remember that your swim zone is unique to you and requires adjustment and fine-tuning as you progress in your swimming skills.
What is the best way to test my swimming zone?
Start with simple measurements and make adjustments based on your comfort level while swimming. Note any areas where you feel resistance or turbulence and adjust your zone if necessary.
Can my swimming zone change over time?
Yes, as your technique improves or your physical condition changes, you may need to adjust your swimming zone for optimal performance.
Does the swimming area depend on the type of pool? Yes, the size and shape of the pool, as well as the swimming system that is used, can affect the dimensions of your swimming area.
