AboutJessica Montenegro Expertise I was a competitive swimmer for about 7 years, swam collegiate for one of the top national champions in swimming. I then coached and trained every age group team from novice to masters.I can answer questions about any swimming stroke, training for competition or health, coaching, and teaching any age group. I am also a certified personal trainer, so if you have questions feel free to ask!
Experience I began as a year round club swimmer and diver and moved on to being captain of my team, as well as swimming collegiate for the one of the Nations top championship schools. I was chosen to teach and coach novice and juniors as well as going on to coach masters. I then went on the be a personal trainer that included aquatic aerobics.
Organizations I have been a member of USA swimming and the Masters swimming organizations.
Education/Credentials trained as a professional lifeguard and coach
Awards and Honors MVP in female diving, 4 year and captains award in swimming.
Question Hi... I'm an 18 year old senior. I run cross country and track and has wanted to swim for a long time but has not had the time to attempt it because I'm also in the marching band and this year I'm the drum major. But this year I have decided is the year that I'm going to learn how to swim competitivly because I'm determined to find the one sport that I am good at and I have felt inspired by Phelps and his 5 golds and counting. So I guess my question is... is it to late for me to learn how to swim competitivly or is there a chance that if I work at it I can become a worthy swimmer per say. I'm actually going to start swimming in December as part of a Winter session so I can start to learn as soon as possible. So I think I have said all that I possibly can think of at this moment lol. So thank you for your time. :)
Answer Hello Jerrod,
First off it is never too late to become good at swimming. I would suggest working on your stroke technique the most. There are many valuable swimming sites online that you can read to get some help, or go to a local pool and ask some of the lifeguards for help. In my experience most of them have been competitive swimmers. Since you have a lot of strength training it your background you have a good platform to begin from. Try working on that endurance in the pool and breathing exercises such as no breathers for so many yards underwater helps a lot. Try working the hardest on freestyle stroke and advance from there, finally join a club team in your area, they will whip you in a competitive swimmer within a month. Do not worry you'll have the time, I was in marching band, swimming, track, and coaching/lifeguarding within the same period of time while still studying law.
Good luck!
-Jessica
