Swimming with the Masters

Founded in 1970, United States Masters Swimming (USMS) is a national group that provides organized workouts, competitions, clinics and workshops for adults 18 and over who are dedicated to improving fitness and health through swimming.

Swimmers participate at all levels of ability, from swimming for enjoyment to competition at local, national and international meets. The organization is divided into smaller groups around the country, called Local Masters Swimming Committees, which are composed of clubs, teams and individual swimmers.

Masters swimming has become popular with a wide variety of people, from novices to triathletes. The only requirement for membership is the ability to swim the length of a pool. The successful clubs mesh the diversity of the swimmers into a program that seeks to meet everyone's needs. Every club or team operates its own program. Some are highly structured with set workouts and on-deck coaching while others are highly informal.

"We have varied skill levels, from former Olympians to people who are learning to put their face in the water," said Bobby Patten, co-founder and head coach of the Dallas Aquatic Masters club. "Each lane is set up for different skill levels. The challenge is in coaching each level."

Patten arranges his workouts to suit each individual, from the post-college student to 85 year-old swimmers who continue to love the sport. A typical workout for beginners might involve teaching members how to breathe correctly while working on technique. An advanced swimmer might work on hand pitch, entry, or interval training. Designing sets that make sense to every swimmer and allowing for flexibility within the workout, creates an environment where diversity in skill is accepted not challenged.

What are the benefits?

Besides the typical health benefits of regular exercise - improve the cardiovascular system, reduce cholesterol, control weight and increase muscle tone - one of the greatest benefits of Masters swimming is being able to practice with an organized group. Regular workouts, concentrated speed training, stroke improvement, coaching, opportunities to improve swimming distance and stamina are all part of the Masters program.

Competing in meets is decided by each individual and is not a membership requirement. Many Masters swimmers simply want a regular work-out routine. About 30% of Masters swimmers compete regularly. For those that enjoy the thrill of a meet, the Masters program offers several opportunities. USMS hosts a short course championship in May and a long-course meet in August. Competitions are organized by age groups in five-year increments and also include lake and ocean open water swims, as well as special events. Serious competitors can be recognized with World and U.S. records, Top Ten, All American rankings or All-Star status.

"Masters swimming is the best exercise for a majority of people," said Patten, who holds Masters World and American records in several events. "But camaraderie and friendship are equally valuable in the program."

To find a local chapter, visit www.usms.org, click on LMSC information and then click on your state. Cost of an annual membership is approximately $25 plus local club fees.