SWIM TEAM…NOT JUST FOR KIDS ANY MORE Illinois Seniors Dip into Fitness, Fun with United States Masters Swimming

DECEMBER 10, 2003 – Whether looking for a break from running in the cold or dark, or trying to improve technique in anticipation of next season’s triathlons, swimming over the winter isn’t unusual. What may be unusual is the number of seniors in Illinois having some serious fun hitting the water year-round as part of a swim team.

These are their own swim teams, not their grandchildren’s. Nearly 1,600 Illinoisans age 60 and over swim on one of the state’s United States Masters Swimming (USMS) teams. USMS is a national organization that provides organized workouts, competitions, clinics and workshops for adults age 18 and over. Programs are open to all adult swimmers (fitness, triathlete, competitive, non-competitive) who are dedicated to improving their fitness through swimming. Founded in 1970, USMS’s membership now numbers more than 41,000 nationwide. All levels of swimmers, from former Olympians to those who have barely stuck their toes in the water, are involved.

Numbers crunch
1,587 Masters swimmers in Illinois – That’s 3.8 percent of the 41,462 USMS swimmers nationwide.
18 Minimum age for swimming in Masters
30 percent of Masters swimmers in America participate in competitive meets
103 Age of oldest-ever Masters competitor nationally

In Illinois:
9.8 percent of USMS swimmers in Illinois are age 60 and over
3.5 percent of USMS swimmers in Illinois are age 70 or over
0.7 percent of USMS swimmers in Illinois are age 80 or over

Nationwide:
10.3 percent of USMS swimmers nationwide are age 60 and over
4.0 percent of USMS swimmers nationwide are age 70 and over
1.1 percent of USMS swimmers nationwide are age 80 or over

Where to get wet
Illinois has nearly 50 USMS swim groups, in cities and towns throughout the state. More information is available at www.usms.org. Go to “LMSC Info” (LMSC – Local Masters Swim Clubs), then click on Illinois in the map. Or call 800-550-SWIM.

How much, how often
For best results for most adults, experts often recommend working up to the point of swimming at a good pace for 45 minutes, three times a week. Serious swimmers may swim an hour or more per day. As always, individuals interested in starting a new fitness program should check with their physicians.    

Essentials
• Bring a swimsuit (Speedo not required), goggles and a towel.
• You don't have to be an accomplished swimmer to join the program, as long as you enjoy lap swimming.
• Be willing to commit two or three days a week to practice.
• Make the priority fun and fitness. About 70 percent of all Masters swimmers don't compete in meets.

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