swimming and bike-riding lessons

[georgy.livejournal.com]

1) So I'm finally going to learn how to swim! Has anyone heard anything particularly good/bad about the Somerville YMCA's adult swimming lessons? Or how about the CCAE -- that's my other option, although it's more expensive. Or a private instructor?

2) Secondly, I also need to learn how to ride a bike (don't ask). I am also considering taking the CCAE's course -- that is, if it is included in their fall semester offerings. Failing that, does anyone else know anyone who gives bike riding lessons?

Thanks!

Comments

[syntheticnature.livejournal.com]

It's expensive, but I was very happy with the swimming teacher Jurek at Wellbridge in Harvard Square. You can take lessons there without being a member. Oh wait! I just remembered! He does the CCAE classes too. Yeah, go for the CCAE classes.

If I had it to do over again, though, I might go for Total Immersion swim training. It's all about helping you be more relaxed in the water. As a beginner, you're an inefficient swimmer. Working harder tires you out without really making you faster. Instead, they help you learn efficiency. The downside is that they are Even More Expensive - a weekend workshop goes for $450. Yeah, four-fifty. But, people swear by them. There's a workshop coming up in Waltham at the end of July - see http://www.totalimmersion.net .

[georgy.livejournal.com]

Thanks for the info! I think I may take both the YMCA and the CCAE classes, since the Y classes are so inexpensive. Not sure about Total Immersion... very pricey :-O

[syntheticnature.livejournal.com]

That sounds good. The one thing I didn't get from lessons with Jurek was a sense of comfort at a big pool. I don't mean the physical size, more about things like lane-sharing etiquette. Maybe the Y lessons will fill in that gap.

Open-water swimming seems to be much more my thing. Yay, Walden Pond! At least in the summer.