Product Description
Become more fluid in the water with Swimming: Steps to Success. This comprehensive guide provides progressive instruction to help you master several swimming strokes and skills: backstroke, front crawl, breaststroke, butterfly, sidestroke, back crawl, trudgen, floating, diving, sculling, and underwater swimming. Step-by-step instruction and 195 illustrations break down each stroke to the basic arm and leg movements and their timing.The multiple drills in each step include a scoring system to gauge success and determine readiness to advance to the next skill. Part of the highly successful Steps to Success Sports series, with more than 1.5 million copies sold, Swimming: Steps to Success is the best tool for learning to swim at your own pace and an excellent resource for mastering skills through the advanced level. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

How to swim
This is a good book to get tips for improving swimming prowess. I learned how better to do the breast stroke and hope to continue learning from it.

excelent teaching tool
I have always had a fear of swimming but had learned elementary techniques to get used to the water and the feeling of submersion.However, I really did not know proper swimming techniques.This book has helped improve my swimming greatly-from freestyle to the breaststroke (there are other styles taught in the book, as well). My confidence level has increased dramatically.

Nice Book, but Total Immersion Wins
The book explains the basics behind every technique, which is a good thing to know to improve your style. I was able to improve mine following the first couple of chapters. However, starting from freestyle, things became difficult and I was not able to either follow the instructions or improve my freestyle (maybe it is my problem). I switched to total immersion book, till now the difference is clear and I am now able to go back and forth in the pool with minimum effort.

10 years of failed attempts, this book did the trick
After 10 years of failed attempts at learning to swim, this book did the trick.
Excellent step by step approach builds confidence and avoids the "just do it" leap that is so hard to make.
Each step begins with the why and the what. These are followed by drills that gradually put all the parts together. The drills are very well thought out, you are learning all the time, and you never get pushed out to the ragged edge where it all falls apart.
Thank you David Thomas!

Very Good
I didn't know swimming 2 months before, but now, after reading the book, Iknow the 4 great styles of swimming. That's all I want to say! ... Read more

Product Description
Put science to work for you in the pool to swim stronger and faster than ever! Swimming Fastest is a fully revised and updated version of Swimming Faster, widely considered by coaches and swimmers as one of the best books ever written on competitive swimming. Author Ernest Maglischo reveals the science behind the training methods that led his teams to 13 NCAA Division II national championships.

Swimming Fastest is the definitive reference on stroke technique and training methods. In addition to explaining what swimmers should do, Maglishco explains why techniques and training are to be executed a certain way.

A primary feature in the book is a thorough and insightful technique analyses of the four primary strokes: freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly. Accompanying the text are more than 500 photographs and illustrations, including photos of world-class swimmers demonstrating picture-perfect form. Supporting the technical instruction is a complete explanation of the physiological basis for the most effective training methods, including detailed sample workouts and training programs for each event.

Swimming Fastest will benefit every serious swimmer and swimming coach. Gain new knowledge, refine technique, maximize training, and trim precious seconds off previous record times. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (17)

swimming fastest
I'm very satisfied for my book. It is what I expected to find about swimming, a complete tractation about it, technique, training and many other fields are examined.
And I'm happy also for the rate! Only ten days from US to Italy where I live! Great!

Swimming Fastest
Excellent. No coach should be without this book. It is the foundation upon which all swim coaches should begin.Swimming Fastest

Fastest Swimming
This is an excellent book, it's the type of book you would like to have with you, but given its size that is a totally impractical proposition. It is an ideal candidate to be available on the Kindle booklist -- in that way you could have the book with you, especially for people who travel a lot; and read/reread some of the compelling chapters.

A must have for swim coaches
I can't tell you how much I enjoy this book. It has a wealth of information about stoke technique, training programs, and a very in depth explanation of energy systems. Every coach has a different approach to training and ernie's insights have been very helpful. This book is a great addition to a swimming book library!

Encycolopedic reference
This book is a very thorough, well researched reference book on swimming. It digests and presents proven techniques for swimming all strokes, down to pretty small but important details such as what orientation the hand should have upon entering the water. Throughout, Maglischo presents the evidence for swimming various ways, talks about the pros and cons of various techniques, and usually offers an opinion about what he thinks is the best practice. He always makes it clear where the research ends and his opinion is beginning. The sweep patterns are shown in many ways, through film frames from several angles, through sketches, and through traces relative to a fixed point in the pool as well as from the swimmers point of view.

I saw some criticism here about the descriptions being hard to follow and about a lack of more recent information. It does take effort to visualize the sweep patterns, but I don't know what else could be done in book form to make them clear. I think the book is more easy to follow than videos I have tried actually. With some imagination and trying it out in the pool, what he says becomes clear enough. I'm actually kind of amazed at the level of detail I am now aware of in my own sweeps as a result of this book. If you swim at least a few times a week for a long time, this is the level of detail you want. If you're a beginner, it might be overwhelming though.

As for the more recent information, I'd think of this book as being about tried and true methods that work for the majority. Once you learn the most effective technique for most people, then you can branch out to other methods. Do newer methods that just one or two well known people are using allow someone to workout for 10+ years at a high level? I don't know, but I'm pretty sure the methods in this book will, so it works for me.

There are sections on workout structuring, strategy, and nutrition I haven't read yet but seem equally well researched at first glance. This is a ton of information. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (3)

Stellar guide for a stellar locale
The authors have done their homework to write this dive book.I love diving Indonesia and rate it #1 in the world, as do they.Great for topside as well as underwater sites to explore.Very complete dive book.Buy Diving the World, too, by the same authors.You won't be disappointed.

A great Valentines Present.
My wife bought me this for a Valentine present. It is one of the best gifts I have received in a long time. Great information through the authors eyes. If you are a SE Asia diver this book is a must have, before you plan your dives through the area.

Definately not meant for a backpacker.............
Great book, lots of colorful pictures, and a good general breifing of local dive sites and conditions. However the authors could have done a much better job when it comes to giving recommendations on accomadation, and describing the practical info and costs of the areas. There rating system considers budget accomadation under $75 dollars a night. They also do not describe how much it costs per dive, or provide the info on how to get from one area to another. Long term travellers like myself will enjoy this book, but will definately need a second reference for planning a budget trip! ... Read more

Product Description
Introduces readers to the Birthlight water training approach--a unique series of exercises developed over many years to encourage confidence and enhance enjoyment in water. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Photos outstanding; writing is sometimes a little hard to follow
This book is so-so, only because it doesn't explain in detail how to actually do everything. It may say "do this" or "do that" but it doesn't explain exactly the best way to go about doing some of the things.

The authors try really hard to explain what needs to be done, but it must be difficult to write how to exactly teach an infant to swim without showing moving photos, as in a video. It might also be because it's written by someone in England and I'm in the U.S.It's all English, but it's not 100% the English I'm used to.

The photos are outstanding, and I did get my 6 mo. old daughter to float the first time I tried what was suggested. I really like how the author stresses that the experiences and the joy is what it's all about, as opposed to having to build new skills each time you take your baby into the water.

Beautiful Book
This book doesn't just teach babies how to swim, it teaches an attitude towards them..I'm learning how to teach patiently and learn that there's no dead line. We *are* having fun at the same time. I live in a country where making babies swim soundsstrange and this book's helping alot, I don't need to council anyone. I bought another resource when I got this book (a VHS) and it wasn't good at all, it was kind of teaching by force. I stopped using it and I only follow this great book (great photoes too!). Thanks to the author!

Excellent book for getting your baby into swimming
I bought this book when my baby was 6 weeks old.I love to swim and wanted to introduce her to the water in a fun, safe way.This book was outstanding because it provided easy to follow method.It seemed to answer just about all my questions.I referred to it (and still do) constantly.I probably read it three times to absorb the information.It gave instruction on how to: introduce the baby to water, take your baby underwater, swim with your baby, games to play and steps to get your toddler headed towards swimming.My baby is now an 18 month old toddler who absolutely loves the water.She will jump from me and "swim" to the ladder (she needs some help from me for floatation - she tends to want to go vertical through the water now) she can hold her breath really well and knows when she surfaces that she can take a breath (and when she goes under to hold it).This book provided the perfect approach for us - never pushing, always make sure the baby is having fun and let her progress at her rate.I can't stress how important that is - sometimes she would plateau for a couple of months before making progress again but it isn't about forcing them to swim - it is about making sure they are comfortable in the water.It did cover safety of your baby too.But this is not a "water safe" your baby in six weeks approach type book.This is a slower more baby friendly book.The pictures are awesome and as one person commented before it would be a great coffee table book.My daughter loved to look at the pictures of the babies swimming too.I can't say enough good things about this book.If you want to get your baby or toddler into the water without fear I would recommend this book.Also Water Baby A first book of water skills by Lauren Heston is good too.I thought this book had more details but they go nice together.

Excellent resource (good coffee table book too)
This book is written along the lines of a traditional child-rearing guide but is laid out with better design and a stronger flow of readability. Essentially it emphasizes the multi-sensory experience and confidence swimming brings to baby and the bonding that occurs with the parents. Excellent color photography add to the high-gloss paper and hardcover binding. A little thin but packed with good information. Highly recommended for new parents. ... Read more

Product Description

Dubbed the 'Hard Coral Capitals' of Micronesia, the islands of Guam, Rota & Yap offer a unique mix of underwater environments and topside cultural diversity. Go on an underwater history adventure exploring the war wrecks and military ordnance on Guam, witness the grace of sea turtles on Rota, or swim with the manta rays in the pristine Yap channels. From the clear blue waters of Guam's Blue Hole, to the grey reef sharks at Shark City on Yap, this book describes 62 of the best dive sites, with full-color photos throughout.

You'll get specific information on:

• depth and visibility
• suggested diving expertise
• common and hazardous marine life
• top-side practicalities, from accommodations and dining, to hikes on Guam and native dances on Yap
• 9 easy-to-read maps

Customer Reviews (2)

Manta's
The Lonely Planet books on diving are always a good bet on defining a place to dive.

Lonely Planet Diving & Snorkeling Guam & Yap (Diving & Snorkeling Guides)
Great photos and explanations of all the dive sites. Also road maps and location details. Very informative book. Small enough to take with you on your trip. ... Read more

Product Description
The Complete Diving Guides to scuba diving in the Eastern Caribbean, including descriptions of ALL dive sites, dive stores and operators. Island maps show the location of dive sites and stores. Dive sites are illustrated by underwater maps and photographs.

Volume 1 gives you everything you ever need to know about scuba diving on these fantastic Caribbean islands: Dominica, Martinique, St Lucia, St Vincent & Grenadines, Grenada, Tobago & Barbados. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Great Reference Guide
A very good book.Picked it up to check it out and was impressed at how comprehensive it is in regards to specific dives spots and charter outfits.I thought it was so useful that I am trying to find Volume 2.

A bit of a let down
Earlier dive guides I have used have come from the Globetrotter series - who do not have a guide for Barbados, which is what I was looking for. Coming to the "Complete Diving Guide" after the high standards of Globetrotter is something of a disappointment. There is nothing wrong with the book in terms of the content it is providing - it gives information on the sites, some (though by no means all) dive schools, and a little background on the islands. However, the writing style is very narrative - think "what I did on my diving holiday this summer" type essays. The presentation is also a bit dated. It is not a bad guide by any means, but if Globetrotter do get around to publishing on the area, it is almost certain to be a better bet.

winston reed
July 2001 I dove several of the sites reviewed by ms Ryanand Mr Savage
and found their profiles of the dives to be very accurate and
helpful.I hope she and Brian Savage will do a "complete
DG of the Bahamas,I'd buy it in a heartbeat.

Needs more vacation details
I found this guide pleasant to look through, but not half as helpful as Best Dives of the Caribbean by Hunter Publishing, which gives a lot more detail on the dive sites, places for kids to snorkel, hotels and everything I need to plan a vacation.

This is the book the Experts Use.
It is always interesting to see which books are used by the local Dive Guides at the sharp end and this is how I was first introduced to this particular book just over three years ago in Grenada. Since then I have put it to good use on a number of assignments in the Caribbean and I have yet to find it lacking in any way.

The opening introductory chapter is well written and includes plenty of general information on diving, facilities, climate, sea, regulations, boats, cruise liners, resorts, hotels, flora, fauna, shipwrecks, photography and safety.The book then commences with Dominica in the north and moves southwards to include Martinique, St. Lucia,St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, Tobago and Barbados before concluding with a Glossary, Bibliography and Accident and Emergency Information.

The relatively few photographs are all of a good quality - but this is book that concentrates on providing all the relevant and peripheral information that any Scuba Diver will want to know before and during a trip to any of the Caribbean Islands covered.The maps and diagrams are particularly useful - and very easy to follow insitu.

On first sight, however, the book cover lacks impact and might easily be overlooked as the prospective purchaser gets side-tracked by something a little more flashy.Do not be tempted away from this one - it is a straight forward, no nonsense guide containing everything you will want to know.

Altogether, almost 400 pages packed with information - although that does include a small number of one-page advertisements.

In summary, any book claiming to be "A Complete Guide" has to include an awful lot of information.This one has achieved just that and will not disappoint the purchaser.

NM

... Read more

Product Description
Experts agree that swimming is the best and most complete form of excercise. Here is the most authoritative and comprehensive guide to the sport. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

I learned the basics ofswimming using this book
I was 28 and did not know how to swim properly.I've gotten by with waving my arms and kicking.. you know, what you see in the olympics.

Picked up this book on recommendation and it clearly illustrated the strokes and gives a short history of strokes, the most impactful one being the crawl stroke.After a few weeks of re-reading the chapter of swimming and going back and forth from the gym reviewing the diagrams with what i was doing in the pool... I got the basics down.Signed up for an advanced swimmers lesson and the instructor said that I was the only one in 20 that actually belonged in the class.So they gave me special one on one instruction regarding my swimming technique.

Great start to learning to swim.

Covers all aspects of the swimming experience
In reading some of the complaints about this book from other reviewers, I would like to add that not all swimming books are created equal. Some are clearly devoted to technique, drills, and fine-tuning every little aspect of your athletic performance, and there are plenty of these instruction-type manuals to choose from.I tend to seek out swim books that address ALL of the aspects of the sport, the way Dr. Whitten does in this book and also Harvey Weiner does in "Total Swimming." As a swimmer who has spent many years in the pool with large gaps in-between of not swimming, I know if I turn to a book like Dr. Whitten's, the motivation to jump back in will be easily available to me.Recently this has been the case; I returned to swimming after 10 years out of the pool, and the author's statement that his book will motivate you is certainly accurate.

For those swimmers who want only to improve their performance, turn to the instruction-manual style swim books.And for all others, who don't mind some instruction/drills chapters but also like to explore the mind-body connection which occurs within the water experience, as well as learn about the health benefits research available to swimmers, there is Dr. Whitten's book.Enjoy!

this book is worthless
The first 86 pages do nothing but tell you why you should swim. If you didn't want to swim why would you have the book to begin with? I am starting triathlons and the only reason I want to swim is to get to T1. After a few moderately useful pages explaining the basic strokes (which you can find better descriptions and pictures on the web) the rest is MORE WORTHLESS FILLER. "How swimming improves your sex life"? Common, WORTHLESS, WORTHLESS, WORTHLESS.

Little about swimming, a lot about everything else
Why are swim book authors so lousy? This one is worse than the Total Immersion book. More pages are devoted to topics around swimming than swimming itself. There are chapters on health, diet, etc. etc. That's not necessarily bad, but I'd rather have a smaller, more focused book just about swim technique. In addition, the author gets carried away with love of his sport, asserting that swimming will lead to a better sex life, longevity, wealth, world peace. Well, many fitness regimes will improve your health. Buy it used and keep your expectations low.

The complete book of the excitement of swimming
This book is great for getting started. If your first thought is,"do I really wanna go all the way up to the pool, get in my swimming trunks and jump into the cold wet?", just open this book and you'll already be in the water. Dr. Whitten has so much enthusiasm for the sport, that he could probably even convince a cat to take up swimming. I bet there are better books for competitive swimmers, which have more complete work-outs or are more technical, but this book gives you a bit of everything and it also explains WHY you should take up swimming. ... Read more

Product Description
This new edition completely demystifies pool systems and their care. Readers will learn how to select and care for pool components and how to establish easy cleaning and maintenance routines.Amazon.com Review
This may not be the snappy tome you take with you to read onvacation, but if you have and maintain a swimming pool, it's a bookyou will want to have handy. It covers the basic construction of poolsof all kinds, cleaning routines, water chemistry and treatment, simplerepairs, caring for hot tubs and spas, and even pool safety. Alsoincluded are tips on water and energy conservation, a glossary ofterms, and a thorough index for quick reference. If you own a swimmingpool, you should own this book. --Mark Hetts ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Not for Above Ground Pool Owners
This is very thorough for in ground pools, but has little to do with above ground and certainly knows nothing about winterizing in the Norhteast.

Excellent for selecting and maintaining a pool
This is a book for people who know nothing about swimming pools and who are thinking of getting one or who need to maintain an existing pool.

The book starts with some basics - the types of pools that exist, water characteristics and treatment - and continues to explain the equipment that comes with a pool. This includes filtration systems, pumps and motors etc. The book closes discussing winterizing and opening up the pool as well as faces-lifts repairs etc. Of course, there is also a chapter on pool-safety.

I really liked the book, as it was well-written (easy to read) and seemed to cover all the essentials, getting me knowledgeable enough to handle the pool in my garden. The book is full of illustrations that help to explain the workings of the different parts that come with a pool.

As the book at every stage discusses the various types of pools and equipment that exist, the book can also be a real help when trying to decide what kind of pool to get.

So, if you are a pool-beginner (pro will need a different level), get this book! The cost are negligeable to those that you can incur from miss-managing your pool.

Excellent pool intro
I bought a house with a pool in the backyard and I had no idea what to do with it. This book really helped me become familiar with the general pool maintenance and how filters, pumps, chemicals, etc work. I still had to call in a pool company to help me open the pool for the first summer, but reading this book helped me understand what they were doing and ask the right questions.

I've also referred to this book a few times for troubleshooting information. While it isn't specific to my particular pool configuration, it points me in the right direction.

What Color IS Your Swimming Pool?
I use this book as a training tool and give one to each of my customers in which I build a pool. New and perspective pool owners need to learn a crash course in pool care and maintenance to preserve the beauty of their investment. I have had a much easier job of educating my customers and in the end, they are much happier. This book is a must for all pool owners that care what water can do to their investment.

Not enough information on "How to".
As a new pool owner, with no prior experience in pool care, I did not findthis book to be particularly helpful. The book had a lot of information onwhat things were, and what needed to be done in terms of problem solving. Unfortunately the book neglected to share with readers how to do it. Iwould not recommend this book to new pool owners. ... Read more

Product Description
Ron O’Brien has produced more champions and coached more Olympic, world, and Pan American teams than any other coach in diving history. Now, in this definitive work, O’Brien brings his full experience and expertise forth so that today’s divers and their coaches can enjoy similar success at their own level of competition.

Springboard & Platform Diving covers all aspects of diving. From solid fundamentals to fine-tuned movements that add aesthetic appeal, O’Brien presents each type of dive with detailed descriptions and accompanying sequential illustrations. Mental preparation tips and physical training programs will give divers a competitive edge. A special boardwork checklist will help pinpoint any deficient skills.

Springboard & Platform Diving provides readers with inside information once exclusively reserved for the world’s best. This book is a one-of-a-kind blueprint for diving success, written by the greatest coach ever in the sport. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Worth it's weight in gold
I dive and I coach diving, and I've stopped calling this book by its title and started calling it the diver's Bible. Thanks to this book i went from being a slightly better than most diver to being a great diver. If you're looking to perfect your voluntaries or to learn how to do big optionals, this book is for you!

THE BEST!!!
This book is THE BEST for divers and coaches. It covers the basics carefully then builds on that information for more difficult and complex dives. The photographs and drawings are clear and well documented.Thank you Ron ... Read more

Product Description
More than 35 passages from novelists, journalists, poets, playwrights, essayists, and scientists detail an intertwined passion for diving and the written word in this collection. From Robert Stone's portrayal of a diver who faces the terrorizing prospect of his air running out to Clare Booth Luce's search for the treasures of the underwater realm, every passage reveals a perspective of the world that only divers have known. Humor columnist Dave Barry battles a lobster and explains why staying on the ocean's surface is like "going to the circus and staring at the outside of a tent." From Rangiroa to the Red Sea, from deep within caverns to the eerie light under ice, from the lethal silliness of nitrogen narcosis to the elation of soaring over unfathomable depths, every selection, like every dive, is a unique experience. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (16)

A great read!
It is hard to get across the myriad of feelings one experiences in Scuba diving. This collection succeeds in doing so. Particularly good was the selection from Philippe Diole , "Mingled Atoms." In short, I emphatically recommend this collection to both divers and non divers.

To Random and Hard to Read
This book has some good information in it but it is poorly put together and extremely hard to read.

60% dull
I consider myself to be an avid diver and reader, so I'm naturally drawn to books that cover a wide berth of topics regarding the ocean and diving.This particular book I had a difficult time wanting to finish.The perspective of the stories were grossly limited by both the recurrent theme of being a new/first time diver and by the fact that few were written after the mid 1970's.There are a few gems amongst the chapters, Dave Berry's lobstering for instance, but the wade through the rest of the book was tiresome.My advise is do not purchase, visit the Library and be willing to skip large portions.

Fascinating collection of stories, butlimited appeal to nondivers
As a diver, this collection of stories is varied and most of them are fascinating.With any collection, there is bound to be some that are similar and some that are not for everyone's taste.I didn't like most of the poems, for instance.I have to say I really enjoyed most of the stories though.I found the cave diving stories spellbinding.

My only caution would be that I think the book appeals most to divers or those with an interest in diving.It is a great gift for such a person.

Decent collection, not all stories fantastic
I recently read this collection of stories while on a nice tropical vacation where I did a couple of dives - so was in the mood. Below, I have broken down some of the positives and negatives that I took away from this collection:

The positives: This is without a doubt a comprehensive collection of writings - in terms of the time period covered and styles of writing (humor, poetry, etc). I thought that some of the stories were really great - couldn't help but laugh at Dave Barry's description of diving. I found a few of the older pieces very interesting due to the historic perspective / context.

The negatives:Any time you take on a project to complile a collection this large across different writing styles, it should be a given that all pieces are not going to appeal to all readers. About 25% of the stories simply did not appeal to me.

Secondly, there also seemed to be arecurring "What my first dive was like" or "What it feels like when you are down there" theme. I also found this a bit tiresome after awhile.As a diver, unending explanations of how clear and blue water is, the sense of weightlessness, etc got to be a bit much. Almost drove me to the best example I could think of - a bottle of Bombay Gin.

Closing:A large enough body of work that I think that every reader will find some of the stories very worthy reading.Light enough for a good vacation or bedtime read. Worthy enough purchase - I think a good gift type of purchase for that diver's christmas fin.

... Read more

Product Description
A complete perspective on the past, present, and future of competitive swimming. Colwin, a swimming coach for over 45 years, offers a storehouse of swimming science and history, plus practical advice for today's coaches and swimmers. 225 illustrations. 30 photographs. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Good Book
Book is well written and to the point.It will help you swim better.

For a newer, updated version with more technique information
Try Colwin's new book, Breakthrough Swimming. Swimming Into the 21st Century is going out of print, but Colwin's new book is even better.

Swimming Into The 21st Century a Dynamic Compendium
Cecil Colwin has produced an encyclopedia of information about competitive swimming, and he has presented it in such a readable format that anyone interested in the sport will find challenging ideas, well-documented and engagingly illustrated, on almost every page.The book is a treasure!

excellent compendium of history, theory, and style
this may be by far one of the most in depth volumes on swimming available.It not only covers strokes, but history of them, evolution, training tips, science & research and more!there is so much information in here, and so well documented, it would take weeks to assimilate it all.highly recommended... and i give it a 9 only because there is no suc thing is a 10 ... Read more

Product Description
The Ultimate Guide to Weight Training for Swimming is the most comprehensive and up-to-date swimming-specific training guide in the world today. It contains descriptions and photographs of over 80 of the most effective weight training, flexibility, and abdominal exercises used by athletes worldwide. This book features year-round swimming-specific weight-training programs guaranteed to improve your performance and get you results.

No other swimming book to date has been so well designed, so easy to use, and so committed to weight training. This book was designed specially for swimmers to increase strength, speed, endurance, and stamina. Not long after you begin following this guide you will cut seconds off of all of your strokes. Swimmers of all skill levels will be able to finish without running out of gas and will be able to swim at record paces until the end of the meet.

Both beginners and advanced athletes and weight trainers can follow this book and utilize its programs. From recreational to professional, thousands of athletes all over the world are already benefiting from this book and its techniques, and now you can too!

As an added bonus, this book also contains links to free record keeping charts which normally sell separately for $20. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

DON'T Do IT!!!!!!!!!
A complete waste of $10!!!!!IDK what the author's swimming background was, hope he is not coaching age group swimmers!

Do not waste your money.
The book is a pathetic collection of cuts and pastes, very poor quality black and white pictures, and a bunch of pages filled with meaningless charts. Its a rip off.

weight training
This product would be good for someone who did not know the basics about dryland, but for someone with a solid background in weight training, it offered nothing I did not already know."Ultimate" isa misnomer, a better title would be "Basic Fundamentals of Weight Training".The approach was very old-school, I was looking for more updated training techniques.I found "Complete Conditioning for Swimming" by Dave Salo to be far superior.

Excellent!!
I strongly recommend this book. I've been using it for just one month and I see the improvement in my swimming workouts!!

GREAT SWIMMING BOOK
This book is an excellent training guide for the swimmer at any level.I have been swimming for many years and after reading this book I have taken my skills to a higher level.I feel much stronger in the pool and my endurance has really increased.I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book to anyone who loves to swim. ... Read more

Product Description

From an Olympic medalist, a proven, step-by-step program for helping you swim your best

Endorsed by Olympic gold medalist Jenny Thompson and written by two-time Olympic winner Tracey McFarlane-Mirande, Championship Swimming brings Olympic-level techniques and training to intermediate swimmers who want to achieve their best.

With her proven program, McFarlane-Mirande takes you from 0 to 60 in just 30 days. This comprehensive manual features:

• Step-by-step drills for improved strokes and more enjoyable workouts
• Tips on how to eliminate "drag"
• Techniques for swimming more powerfully with less effort
• Dry-land exercises
• Easy-to-follow illustrations

From intermediate to competitive swimming, Championship Swimming is sure to improve the quality of every swim, whether for leisure, exercise, or going for the gold.

Customer Reviews (5)

Another General Swimming Book
There is not a lot to say about this book. It covers the basics, and more details on freestyle. There are some good hints/tips, but not very deep. Still a good book to read.

Good beginner's book
I've always had trouble with swimming form and getting past the boredom of laps. The instruction here is clear and easy to grasp and I really like the drills.

Excellentguide to technique and training
Great for beginners or anyone looking to increase efficiency and speed.I always enjoyed swimming and thought I had a decent command of freestyle and breastroke.I swam mostly for fitness - got in the pool and swim for 30-45 minutes and never payed attention to times, form, etc.My kids became involved competitive swimming and as a result I began taking it more seriously.This book served as an excellent guide and is suitable for all levels - even those that do not feel comfortable in the water. ( You will outgrow it however and I would recommend Breakthrough Swimming for the next level).Once I adopted the techniques outlined and then reinforced by drills,I increased speed and to a greater extent efficiency - important to a 40 year old.I now can swim all 4 strokes and enjoy swimming more than ever!

perfect practise
this book is full of valuable information how to improve ones swimming style. The central and often repeated sentence is: Not practise makes perfect, but perfect practise. I already have started to improve my swimming style.

breaking old habits
Though I've been a masters swimmer for a few years, this book and it's drills were helpful. By going through the prescribed program, week by week, the freestyle concepts of rotation, breathing on both sides,and stretching, start to replace old habits.I agree, it's important to drop back and work on technique, rather than reinforce poor body mechanics while keeping up in your lane. The freestyle and breaststroke chapters were the most helpful to me. ... Read more

Product Description
Hawaii offers underwater adventures for all, from snorkelers to divers, from the novice to the expert. Whether you're diving through wrecks or observing tropical marine life, this guide will take you to the best sites around the five dive regions - Oahu, the Big Island, Maui County, Kauai & Niihau, and Midway Islands.

In This Guide:

Detailed dive information to 67 sites.
Full-color photos throughout.
Maps of dive regions.
Guide to marine life.
Travel logistics and topside attractions.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Great for divers
This book covers ALL the islands for diving and snorkeling. It would be perfect if you were going to be diving a lot there. It gave thorough information for many areas. We found that asking locals for great spots worked out better. The book did give us a great starting point and some info about parking and the beaches at locals.

Good general Hawaii dive guide
Since Hawaii has a number of islands, each with a ton of dive sites, this book only has general and somewhat limited information for specific areas.I would have preferred a Diving & Snorkeling MAUI guide, but as far as I know Lonely Planet doesn't make one.The Diving & Snorkeling Hawaii book would be fine if it was a bit longer (this one is pretty short), but then it would be a pain to pack. ... Read more

Product Description
"Swimming - Training Program" sets out the 300 swimming schedules and 115 weight schedules making up a single six-month training cycle, each week's program, which in most cases involves thirteen swimming schedules and five weight schedule, also includes a description of how the week's program is compatible with and contributes to Lydiard's training objectives. Chapters include the Aerobic Build Up period, the Transition period, then the Anaerobic Conditioning period and finally, the most important of all, Trials and Coordination race preparation period. This book is for the competitive swimmer, but also less experienced swimmers not yet able to handle the full Lydiard program will find tips on how to modify the schedules to bring them down to a volume that they can manage. This appeals to young athletes just setting out on their senior competitive careers or recreational swimmers who use swimming as part of their fitness program or triathletes who have to allocate training time to three disciplines or surf swimmers using pool work to prepare for their specialist sport. and Pan Pacific Games. ... Read more

Product Description
The parents guide to swimming, July 5, 2003 Reviewer: Rebecca Uhl- van Oostendorp from Oxford, MS United States As a past competitive swimmer and current USS swimming coach, I cannot expressenough gratitude to Dr. Arata for the invaluable asset he offers to parents,swimmers and coaches alike.? This bookis the answer to the question parents often ask: 'We don't know anythingabout swimming; is there anything to read?'? THIS is it!? Theinformation in this book will provide the security, comfort and knowledge forany new parent whose child is entering swimming.? Moreover, it enables them to understand, support and encouragetheir child in this wonderful lifelong sport.?I am buying and distributing copies to my team.? Thank you, Dr. Arata, for putting into thewritten word what ordinarily takes years to otherwise get across.The Handbook for all Parents of Swimmers, July 5,2003Reviewer: Roger W Rechsteiner from Lubbock TX This is a terrific book!? How I wish I'dhad it when my own swimming daughter was feeling 'burned out'.? Dr. Arata has great ideas on how to motivatekids past that stage so they have a chance to fulfill their potential.? A wonderful resource on training, diet ?everything!? Super A+!Great information for parents of competitive swimmers!,July 6, 2003Reviewer: Terre Christensen Parents' Guide to Swimming is a much needed tool for parents ofcompetitive swimmers.? In it I foundinformation on every topic an involved parent would need, especially a parentlacking a swimming background. ?Arata'sperspective on the role of parents and coaches is especially helpful.? He provides suggestions as to how parentscan help their children succeed in competitive swimming while leaving thecoaching to the coach.? A very worthyread packed full of good information on topics ranging from nutrition toflexibility to how to find a suitable program for your swimmer.? A must have!The Parents' Guide toSwimming isthe parents? manual for the mental, physical and practical aspects ofcompetiti ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

The Parents' Guide to Swimming
This book is outstanding.A must for any swimming parent.

Great information for parents of competitive swimmers!
Parents' Guide to Swimming is a much needed tool for parents of competitive swimmers.In it I found information on every topic an involved parent would need, especially a parent lacking a swimming background.Arata's perspective on the role of parents and coaches is especially helpful.He provides suggestions as to how parents can help their children succeed in competitive swimming while leaving the coaching to the coach.A very worthy read packed full of good information on topics ranging from nutrition to flexibility to how to find a suitable program for your swimmer.A must have!

The Handbook for all Parents of Swimmers
This is a terrific book!How I wish I'd had it when my own swimming daughter was feeling "burned out".Dr. Arata has great ideas on how to motivate kids past that stage so they have a chance to fulfill their potential.A wonderful resource on training, diet--everything!Super A+!

The parents guide to swimming
As a past competitive swimmer and current USS swimming coach, I cannot express enough gratitude to Dr. Arata for the invaluable asset heoffers to parents, swimmers and coaches alike.This book is the answer to the question parents often ask:"We don't know anything about swimming; is there anything to read?"
THIS is it!The information in this book will provide the security, comfort and knowledge for any new parent whose child is entering swimming.Moreover, it enables them to understand, support and encourage their child in this wonderful lifelong sport.
I am buying and distributing copies to my team.
Thank you, Dr. Arata, for putting into the written word what ordinarily takes years to otherwise get across. ... Read more

Product Description
Learn diving from the world's premier diving coach.

Ron O'Brien, head coach of the U.S. Olympic team since 1972, has produced more champions and coached more Olympic, World, and Pan American teams than any other coach in diving history. In 1982 his divers won all four World Championship gold medals--an achievement that no other coach has equaled. In 1984 and 1988, under O'Brien's coaching, Greg Louganis won four Olympic gold medals, accomplishing the rare feat of back-to-back double gold medals. His divers have won more than 350 medals in national and international competitions.

After honoring Ron O'Brien as Outstanding Coach of the Year every year from 1979 to 1988, U.S. Diving named him its first national technical director. O'Brien is also director of diving for the city of Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

O'Brien is renowned not only as a coach, but also as a diver. A two-time national champion himself, O'Brien was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 1988.

Now O'Brien's experience and expertise are available to you. Ron O'Brien's Diving for Gold contains the comprehensive information that divers need to develop from beginners into champions. The book emphasizes the basic skills for the 1- and 3-meterspringboards and the 5-, 7-1/2-, and 10-meter platforms.

Ron O'Brien's Diving for Gold also shows you the author's ground-breaking formula for constructing the forward approach. This formula will help divers of all sizes and abilities create approaches like the champions.

Get an inside look at what makes dives work in Ron O'Brien's Diving for Gold--the book for divers and their coaches.Amazon.com Review
Ron O'Brien, head coach of the U.S. Olympic team since 1972, has produced more champions and coached more Olympic, World and Pan-American teams than any other coach in diving history.In 1982 his divers won all four World Championship gold medals, and in 1984 and 1988 he coached Greg Louganis to back-to-back double gold medals.Now he shares his diving and coaching expertise in this book, which emphasizes the basic skills for the 1- and 3- meter springboards and the 5-, 7.5-, and 10-meter platforms.It also shows the author's ground-breaking formula for constructing the proper forward approach.This is the book forbeginning divers who want to be champions. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

A must for every diver and coach
Terrific fundamentals and explainations.My only question is about the teaching of back twisters which he shows in a different way in his videos.Most coaches teach the way in the videos, and most top divers do it that way.A terrific reference for the experienced and beginning coach.I've coached divers at all levels for 25 years and I still use it as a reference.

Have you ever not known what to tell your diver?
Well, if you answered yes then purchase this book. Even though it is written on an elementary level, Ron O'brien has the credentials to back even the most simple explanations of the sport.It is great for a beginneras well as an experienced coach because it shows the perspective of a trueexpert.I know from my own experience that diving coaches think they knoweverything, but if they took the time to study the sport on the mostelementary level their divers will certainly benefit.

Have you ever not known what to tell your diver?
Well, if you answered yes then purchase this book. Even though it is written on an elementary level, Ron O'brien has the credentials to back even the most simple explanations of the sport.It is great for a beginneras well as an experienced coach because it shows the perspective of a trueexpert.I know from my own experience that diving coaches think they knoweverything, but if they took the time to study the sport on the mostelementary level their divers will certainly benefit.

great, but I didn't read it.
I wanted to read, so just read and I wanted to find imformation for my reseach, but I couldn't read this. If I want to read this book on internet, then what i should do.. tell me, please. ... Read more

Product Description
Lonely Planet Diving & Snorkeling guides cover the best dive sites around the world

With more than 7000 islands and countless coral reefs, the Philippines offers a plethora of diving opportunities. Whether its snorkeling alongside whale sharks, cruising with mantas or thresher sharks, exploring WWII wrecks or simply hanging out near the kaleidoscopic walls and reefs, this tropical paradise will fascinate divers of all skill levels.

In This Guide:

Detailed dive information to 125 sites
Full-color photos throughout
Easy-to-read maps of dive regions
Dive icons and skill evaluation for all sites
Diving services and live-aboards
... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Came at the Perfect Time!!
Hello everyone,

This book which is currently sitting on my desk is an absolute god send. I preordered it and it was published a month early. I am taking a month vacation to scuba dive in the Philippines and this is the perfect dive guide. There are very few books on scuba diving specfically in the Philipinnes and this book really goes into great detail about the dive sites and what to watch out for. I have reservations for diving in Malapascua and the author breaks down how to get there, the time it takes get there, and how not to get scammed. I would have never know to get to the boat dock before 2pm or I would have a hard time finding a boat over to Malapascua Island. You could tell the author had really been there. I'll report back after I dive the sites he recommeneds.

Excellent and much appreciated guide to diving in the Philipinnes!!!!

... Read more

Product Description
Scuba's most comprehensive and authoritative guide is now better than ever!

Scuba Diving provides a clear, thorough, and captivating learning experience for all who want to take the plunge. Packed with beautiful full-color photographs and detailed diving instruction, this updated edition is the preferred guide for recreational divers, diving instructors, and students around the globe.

Renowned diving instructor Dennis Graver sheds light on the undersea world and how to experience it safely with essential details on skills, techniques, and planning. In Scuba Diving, you'll learn how to

• select, outfit, and care for diving equipment;
• equalize pressure in the ears, sinuses, and mask;
• use dive tables and diving profiles;
• follow boat-diving and buddy-check procedures for safe diving; and
• prevent or manage underwater emergencies and hazards.

Whether you're a beginning or intermediate diver or diving instructor, make sure you have all the bases covered before you go underwater. Scuba Diving will ensure a safe, successful, and rewarding dive every time you take the plunge. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Highly recommended as an outstanding survey of the sport and technique of scuba diving!
Dennis K. Graver's SCUBA DIVING appears in its fourth updated edition to pair lovely photos with clear diving instruction guidelines. Recreational divers, instructors and more receive direction from a famous diving instructor who tells how to select and care for diving equipment, how to use reference charts, and how to prevent or manage underwater emergencies. Highly recommended as an outstanding survey of the sport and technique of scuba diving!

Great Scuba Book !!!!
Informative, an easy read and graphics nicely done to drive home the point.Beyond that; it's very interesting.

Scuba Diving
This book is a classic training manual for new scuba divers, it is complete and easy to understand. I recommend it for anyone interested in learning to enjoy scuba diving.

Basic manual
This is the YMCA open water 1 book. It was very similar to my NAUI manual. Not heavy on technical details. I should have read some reviews before buying.

Excellent preparation for scuba diving
A very comprehensive theoretical manual that discusses the ocean environment, how the human body reacts and adapts to that environment, and everything a diver needs for a successful diving experience. The author spends a lot of time on equipment and discusses every part in detail: what it is, how it is used, how it is maintained and cared for, what to consider when buying it, how different products compare, etc. He also explains different diving techniques, pressure problems and solutions, entering and exiting water with full diving gear, hand signals, and emergency skills. It is the perfect companion to a scuba diving class.

... Read more

Product Description
Enlarged, redesigned edition has underwater photos in full color, as well as new line drawings and cartoons. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Of benefit to the experienced swimmer
Whether you swim for exercise, relaxation or pleasure, this book is sure to help. While a good proportion of the text is devoted to explaining and justifying the principles behind the ideas it promotes (and I did tend to skip much of that, although I am sure it is interesting in itself), it does contain some really good advice.

I swim for an hour or more on an almost daily basis. Being a swimmer who at one time swam competitively I was finding it hard to do anything other than swim all out in the pool, but the suggestions here really helped me gain a new perspective, and derive much greater pleasure from my swimming.

Some sections are devoted to specific advice on individual strokes, highlighting both good and bad practices. Interestingly many of the suggestions contained in the book do not contradict typically taught methods, but rather they compliment or enhance them. However it does also warm against some practices which it considers physically harmful, especially some practices adopted by competitive swimmers. Overall its message is to encourage swimming techniques that are both relaxing and that make swimming a pleasure.

I found this a most useful book, every bit as beneficial for the experienced swimmer as much as the novice.

If you swim, you should get this book.
I've been a regualr swimmer for about 30 years - 4 to 5 times a week, an hour or so each time.About 2 years ago, a friend gave me a book about the Alexander Technique to read, saying it might be of interest to me and my swimming.I was quite interested and managed to attend a workshop where I got some hands-on experience with the work.One evening, a group of us went to the pool with one of the teachers and she showed us how to apply some of the ideas to swimming.

I couldn't believe how much of difference that little bit of information made!I realized that I had been using too much, and the wrong kind of effort, particularly with my back stroke.I'd always loved to swim, and the feel of the water, but now swimming became a whole new experience for me.Much more fluid and with less effort, and yet just as invigorating.Several friends have commented on the change.

The Art of Swimming is, as far as I know, the only book devoted specifically to swimming and the Alexander Technique.I found it very readable and I think it would make a good introduction to the ideas of the Technique for swimmers.I'd also recommend the book that got me started by Rickover, called "Fitness Without Stress - A Guide to the Alexander Technique".Also a book called "The Authorised Summaries of the Four Books of F.M. Alexander".END ... Read more