Log Books

What are they & how to use one

All swimmers should keep a logbook, from the time of their first competition. This needn’t be expensive, any exercise book will do but a diary is even better.

All swimmers should keep a record of their competition times; the date achieved; the distance swum and the pool length e.g. Hazel Grove 25m

Before attending a competition set a realistic target time (you will not Pb at every meet!) be aware of how you feel your swimming training is progressing. Have you trained hard? Have you attended enough sessions? Be Honest!

After each training session, make notes on the programme and your repeat times. If you miss part of a session (goggle fiddling, toilet breaks, cramp etc.) write that down. Be Honest!
Make a note of how you feel, what you have eaten, drunk, and also other distractions of life.

Goal Setting

Long Term Goals
At the beginning of each year (September in swimming) give yourself a goal for the next 12 months e.g. move to a higher group, knock Xseconds off a particular stroke. Talk to your coach about your ambitions.
How are you going to reach this goal? Where should be you be in 6 months?

Short Term Goals
Break these down into 1 month, 1 week and 1 day.
One month-how many sessions do I need to attend? Can I make sure I eat the proper food, drink plenty of water and get to bed at a reasonable hour!
One week-can I attend all sessions available to me, if not can, can I supplement them with something constructive.
One day-did you try as hard as you could? Did I listen and understand my Coach. Did I encourage my team mates to perform to the best of their ability? Did I congratulate someone on a set well done? Did I take the lead without complaining? Did I behave with pride as a member and representative of Saracens swimming Club in all aspects of life?

Make out a check list

• Long Term Goals (Olympics!) 1-5yrs
• Short Term Goals 1 month- 1 day
• Target Times
• Personal Best Times
• Feelings, Diet etc
• Personal Achievements

*Behaviour
*Encouragement
*Team Spirit
*Being the best you can be

Remember above all, BE HONEST

Get your own log book

And Download this guide

Or Download Training Techniques/Log Books & Land Training in one 2.16MB zip file

HERE