Do you have a small pool? Where I swim, I can take three strokes, and it’s time to turn again. That’s rather limiting if you’re wanting to get some serious exercise in the pool. Those endless pools that create a flow of water like a river are the ultimate, but there’s a low cost alternative.
It’s called a tether. Tether is just a fancy name for a rope. When I first thought about doing something like this I thought it would be very simple.
http://www.swimtether.com
I took a clothes line (yep, sometimes I hang my sheets outside), and tied one end around the base of the diving board, and the other end around my waste.
Simple, yes. Cheap, yes. But there’s a problem. If the rope is too low, your feet and legs get tangled up in it. Definitely, not cool!
Then I discovered the right way to hook up a tether, and that’s to use a pole. That keeps the line high enough so it doesn’t interfere with your feet.
To my pleasant surprise, ready-made tethers are not expensive, at least for the line and the belt that goes around your waste. That part can be as low as $35. The pole, however, could approach as much as $190 + installation, depending on whether it’s made out of flexible fiberglass or stainless steel.
Mounting Pole for Tether Line
http://www.swim-in-place.com
I do suggest buying a ground mount – a nice receptacle in which to insert the pole. You’ll want to be able to remove the pole from time to time, so this is a good addition.
All in all, tethers are a lot cheaper than a continuous river pool, and can be very effective in a regular exercise program.
So, move over, Mike Phelps!
With a little training, I’ll be ready for the Olympics. Well, maybe my kids will… :-)
