Swimming is a fun physical activity that many people partake in as a hobby. It’s also an immensely popular sport enjoyed by millions of fans around the world. However, one event that draws a lot of attention from swimming enthusiasts is the individual medley or IM. That’s because it involves using multiple swimming styles, which makes training for this event an excellent way to master the sport and get in shape. Here’s what you should know about IM.

3 Facts About Swimming Individual Medley

1. Uses Four Strokes

As the name implies, individual medley is a combination of four swimming styles — butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke, and freestyle — done by only one swimmer. To compete in this event, you’ll have to be proficient or at least familiar with all four strokes. Being well-rounded is challenging, especially when you know your limitations as a swimmer. If you want to be an IM swimmer, you have to learn what your weakest strokes are and focus on improving them. In the end, you will become more flexible with your abilities as a swimmer by becoming adept in all four strokes.

2. Poses a Challenge

Swimming the IM event is strenuous. As a beginner, you’ll have to work hard while training for it. Butterfly is the opening leg, and it’s considered the most challenging stroke because it requires the most strength and stamina. Backstroke, however, allows you to recover and pace yourself until the breaststroke part of the medley. After which, it becomes a race to the finish with freestyle, when swimmers have to give it their all, — leg cramps notwithstanding.          

3. Offers a Dynamic Workout Routine

Even if you’re not an IM swimmer, you can still include the four stroke-medley as part of a regular workout routine. Butterfly helps with improving stamina, as it conditions your body to better handle fatigue. It also builds strength because it uses the same muscle groups during breaststroke and freestyle. On the other hand, backstroke is ideal for warm ups and cool downs. This stroke helps you breathe easier, lets your heart rate rest, and prevents cramps from lactic acid buildup. Breaststroke makes hard use of the legs, flexing the groin, thighs, and calf muscles for added flexibility and lower body strength. Like backstroke, it is also ideal for active recovery by doing easy sets. Freestyle is best for endurance training and loosening your muscles before and after a vigorous workout.

When you’re ready to learn more about swimming IM, drop by Greene Valley Recreation Club. Located in Beavercreek, OH, their certified coaches will help you train as part of the swim team under the individual medley event. They also offer swim lessons, in case you want to improve your form and strokes. Call (937) 426-3273 or visit their website for information on pool hours.