SwimPhilly has been around for six summers!

Many people ask me how did Swimphilly become an official business! So back in the day I started in the winter just teaching a older gentleman in a very upscale apartment how to swim. The upscale apartment had a 3 lane pool in it. He was my only client and that was all I needed to try and make the coaching a success. He really wanted to learn how to swim. I would hop on the train and I believe catch the one of earliest running trains to Center City because I had to be there by 7 o’clock. He was the only client i had that day. I saw him two times a week. As i continued he did we formed a great bond. By the late winter, I formed my website. Each year Swimphilly grows a bit more and try to continue spreading my feelers and seeing who wants lessons. Overall I didn’t know how much this business would cost or take to get there but I’ve given people a chance to check something off their bucket list, learning how to swim. Forming a business takes a lot of work, time, and money. It is kind of a labor of love as I call the shots and reinvest in the business the way I want to. I also made my business official and tied it to an LLC. There is much more I’m sharing that I did do, but what you learn along the way is the hard work pays off.

Swim Tips For the Summer: Covid Edition

So we’re at the point where many people feel various ways about the pandemic. I am precautios but feel good about going outside without a mask. At this point, masks are an option, not a rule. Although this is a great feeling many people are still very worried about the virus, but I have already been vaccinated. I have a pretty good immune system so I’m ready to carry on like this whole thing never happened. Although the virus is a frightening thing for people, many people are feeling more comfortable if I come to their house and use their at-home pool.

In terms of how the swim scene is in Philadelphia public pools, they are still in need of lifeguards. If you are a lifeguard, I would look into it. The recreation centers are paying 15.00 dollars an hour which is pretty good. The recreation centers are supposed to be opening in early July. Unfortunately, many of these gems will not be opening to the public because we are still in the middle of a pandemic crisis.

Tinted Googles Are The Best Summer Swimming Accessory!

Tinted goggles are the best summer accessory and here is why: when you swim outside the sun can be pretty extreme. When I was swimming laps in my non-tinted googles one day, I found it extremely hard to see. It was hard to participate in back floats and even doing the backstroke. Being on your stomach was a bit easier but the sun was still shining. I have to be completely honest in that I don’t buy many new pairs of googles; at pools, there is usually a lost and found for googles where people tend to leave the unclaimed googles for those who forget a pair to someone else.

I looked online at www.swimoutlet.com to see prices on pairs. They tend to have a few frames that allow for sun protection. I would most likely buy a pair of Speedo Vanquishers for around 20 dollars. The Michael Phelps brand has a pair for around 40 dollars and I have to say they look spiffy as ever. The last tinted google set I saw was by Sporti; they are running right now for a great price of $7.99. Clearly there is a wide range of prices but you can purchase a decent pair of tinted goggles to fit your budget so you can enjoy your summer swim.

It's Never to Late to Start Swimming!

A big part of my work is working with people who are trying to build up their endurance. A small portion of the people I've worked with has been physically handicap. Yes, believe it or not, I've worked with amputees, those who have been immune-compromised, and those with degenerative diseases on their bodies. Despite this, all of them have learned to swim. I'm writing this to let people know that people at various levels tend to find swimming therapeutic, fun, and gentle on the body. If you've done things like weightlifting or cross-fit, they tend to tear up your body. Swimming is luckily very light on your joints, but it still challenges your heart and muscles. I had a client say that she hadn't done laps in a pool in years. She was able to complete the simple yet challenging workout I gave her, but its because we started small. If you have physical challenges, try to find a modification that makes the movement more natural to do. I have clients who have been out of the gym for a while and want to get back in shape. In reality, swimming is a solo sport, so start simple and don't get caught up in how fast you are doing a lap. Speed is the last thing to come. Try to realize how something should feel, and make it look pretty before you add the speed. Last but not least, don't give up on yourself during a workout. There are always challenges during an exercise, but if you don't attempt the problem, how will you get stronger? Movements take practice, so continue to practice them before you give up. You create and do your workout, so start with short distances and then work your way up to longer stuff.

Whats going on!

So I’m happy to announce, I will be able to do swim lesson starting this Friday. If you interested in swim lessons are available in an outdoor space! So exciting to know that we will be swimming again.

Philadelphia has gone absolutely crazy due to the looting and rioting. There was a beautiful picture of thousands of Philadelphians raising their fist up in solidarity with the victims and their community members during a peaceful protest. I just want to make it clear it seems many people go out with good intentions and then hours later they take a turn for the worse. The crazy thing is it is not just the small business in Center City that was hit by rioting. Targets and Walmarts were being hit in the Northeast and King of Prussia. As you can imagine it was a lot of looting. In fact, the only way I can describe the scenes of the looting and riot is post-apocalyptic. Cars were lit on fire. The streets were full of a diverse crowd of people running off with all their retail booty. Statues and buildings were graffitied all over the city. Today (when I writing this) is two days later we have had two mandated curfews and the national guard is coming in today. I was proud to hear that many volunteers came together to Center City to help clean up some of the shops that got bruised by looting. If you think this is about George Flyod death your dead wrong!

MY stepsister wanted to attend a peaceful protest and she asked me for some tips:

Go with a group of friends or people you trust!

Wear comfortable shoes!!

Make sure you feel safe in the environment you in!

Make a sign! (You don’t have to, but It shows how you really feel without having to speak!)

That all for now !

Stay Safe and Wash Your Hands!

Coach Kelcey

Neshaminy State Park

Neshaminy State Park is located in Bensalem. From what I have seen the park is pretty extensive. It has a swimming pool, horse stables, and a beautiful marina of its own as well as plenty of running and walking trails. It has a playground to bring the kids as well, so it is a very family-friendly park. The pool looked amazing as it had 2 slides. The park when I visited was still being worked on by landscapers and I even had the chance to run into a park ranger.

My guess is that the pool will not be open at least until July if it opens at all. but the ground are beautiful and there is a piece of the park the allows you to look into the city. i saw a ton of people walking their dogs when I went to visit the park.

I’ve given you all enough insight into the park now it up to you to go and explore here is the address:

3401 State Road. Bensalem, PA 19020

IF you're worried about the whole COVID thing hop over the website about the parks: www.dcnr.state.pa.us.

It's a Jungle Out Here

So another week of no swimming however it was a holiday weekend for many people. Hoping that despite the hard time’s people got to spend time with close loved ones and celebrate. In other news, I’ve built up quite the activity list of things to do while the pandemic is going on.

I have made a makeshift face mask no sewing required. It requires fabric if you're in need use an old t-shirt, but luckily my mom found some fabric laying around in the house, so I was able to use that. Hair ties, i would recommend ones that have been stretched out but look don’t be afraid to just use ones you have or pieces of elastic and then optional use of a coffee filter. If you type in how to make a face mask on youtube simple directions come up. Check out: How to make a facemask, HERE

My Makeshift Face Mask

There are two reasons I chose to make a face mask. First off, people on the front line need actual medical-grade masks more than I do. Front line workers use the face mask for PPE or protection against the disease. I wear a mask for two reasons to protect myself and two protect others.

So due to the fact that I have been going a bit stir crazy, I adventured out to some outdoor areas. John Heinz National Recreation Center. It’s a very gorgeous bird and fish sanctuary. it has several short trails. There were several people out when i went but it wasn’t crowded or overrun by people. Some people wore masks and some didn’t. It opens from sunrise to 8 pm.

The other place I went to was Bartram’s Garden. Things are just starting to bud but it was nice to just get outside and see some flowers. Bartram’s Garden is in West Philadelphia so because of this, I had the chance to check out a few local art murals in the area before heading home. The city was, in fact, a ghost town. I would say less populated than the outdoor spaces I went too. I suppose that good because that means people are following the CDC guidelines. Good JOB Philadelphia!

Be safe and wash your hands we will get through this!

Stay safe everyone!

We're out here surviving!

So there is a pandemic going on changing most people's way of life. Although it is a relaxing time to stay at home many people are still working and we all have he shall not be named (Covid-19) in that back of our minds. All pools and recreation centers have closed. This is a bummer because, to be honest, corona-virus is killed by chlorine and i could really use the pool as a place to relax and distress. I’m going to leave some alternative ways to distress outside of the pool.

1. Go for a walk or run outside! I’ve been logging steps and walking about 4 miles daily with my family. It’s just a nice change of scenery and I think it also helps relieve stress.

2. I’ve seen a lot of ways you can do yoga. The YMCA was broadcasting yoga on some platform free of charge. Many YouTubers have posted free yoga workouts. On-Demand also has 15-minute segments of things like yoga burn. so there is a way to get your body moving threw these hard times.

3. When in doubt use creativity. I’ve seen a number of friends go outside and design their own workouts with weights, jump ropes, and bands. you can even stay indoors and use household items and keep it fresh and fun!

I also realized something else, this past February was my fifth year anniversary of me starting the company. It’s very exciting that I’m still here and I’m also realizing how far my company has truly come. The first year I was in business I had one client. Fast forward five years later and I have five consistent clients. I knew nothing about business but I knew a bunch about swimming! I’m so proud of myself and my clients. I also know that i have had a lot of support along the way and i want to thank everyone for that.

You Are Bigger then Your Excuses!

It's never too late to get started on your swim journey. Recently, I got home late at night. I inhaled my dinner and went straight to sleep, just because the day was so long. The following morning my dad woke me up and asked if I wanted to attend a masters swim team practice. Reluctant to attend, I decided to get changed into my swimsuit. I got to the master’s practice and was greeted with smiles by the on-deck coaches. I jumped in the pool and attended an hour-long workout. it was actually a blast even though it was at 5 am. I had a great workout and I realized something. 90 percent of the time I’m bigger than my excuse. Yes, it was early. Yes, I meet a bunch of new swimmers and new coaches. YES, I got a good workout. I was extremely proud of myself for completing that workout. I’m writing this short blog during the winter to remind you that you are bigger than your excuses.

Also, I want to encourage others to check out their local masters swimming program. It provides you with a guided workout. You’ll meet some very cool down to earth swimmers. I would recommend that you try out a few clubs to find the right club that fits you. Some are more intense than others, but, hey, you will definitely make some friends, so GO FOR IT!

It's All About Balance

Ever since I started working my new full-time job I’ve had a hard time fitting the gym or activity in my life. I can proudly say, I fit a workout this week four times. I am extremely proud of myself. Working out is important to me because it’s my time to prioritize myself. It also allows me to take care of myself. But it's also a great way to destress. Before I started working as a teacher I had a much more relaxed schedule. Which meant more time to be flexible and more energy to work out. If your feeling a bit overwhelmed or stressed turn to the gym but there are other places you can distress besides the gym.

Regardless if you’ve been far away from your happy place you can always start back up. Another idea is you can experiment with times to go to the gym. I started waking up early in the morning before school. Yes, it’s nice being done with working out in the morning by waking up early in the morning, but also getting up at 4:30 in the morning is extremely early in the morning. So I would say experiment with time and find what time works best with you.

The last thing is to listen to your body and make sure your eating enough, drinking enough water and getting enough sleep. If one of those things is off it is going to be very challenging to have a productive and happy workout. Don’t forget to take care of yourself beyond going to the gym. Aside from going to the gym, mental health is very important. You are you’re the biggest advocate so be sure to get what you need.

The Suunto Sports Watch

CI got a sports watch as a gift. I have had time to work out with it for a few months. I feel it is only fair that I give it a review. So it is easy to use. I use it for swimming as well as the other various workouts. Swimming is not a necessity as the watch has various workout modes you can do. The watch has running, yoga, hiking, biking, weight lifting, and even yoga. All of these various modes can be tracked by the watch. The reason my dad chose this watch is that he knows I could use it for swimming, but all that aside, the watch provides results from your varied workouts. The watch provides results such as distance, heart rate, pace per 100 stroke rate. The watch also breaks down your workout into various intensity zones. I like the result because you can only improve from them.

If you are considering buying a watch for sports, try to think about what activities you do most often, and then that knowledge can help direct you to the best watch for your needs. The only complaint I have for the swimming mode is that it doesn’t track your results during a kick set… Tragic, right? I also like the watch because you can look back at your workout results later.

Another thing I like about having a watch is that it holds you accountable. It’s much easier to get out of working hard if no one is keeping track of something. You see your results instantly, so that’s great as well. These watches are a bit expensive, so seriously consider whether it will be worth the money before buying it. I love my watch and would definitely purchase it again.

Tips for Both Newbies and Veterans

This article is designed for those new to swimming. Every once and awhile I have a group of new swimmers that don’t have a ton of experience swimming. I try to give people the easiest way to correct their swimming form, so here are some details about swimming that i always tell my clients that seem to help them out:

!. You need to empty your lungs in order to get a fresh breath of air. So, blow out bubbles when your face is in the water and then when your face is out of the water, take a fresh breath of air.

2. Kicking is a tough skill that everyone should be able to master; it just takes practice to be able to do it efficiently. First, make sure you’re using your hip muscles to kick. Your legs should be relatively straight with only a minimal bend in the knee. The last important aspect is you should be breaking the surface with your feet and legs as you kick. Remember, there should always be white water coming from your feet.

3. Correct breathing is not just a turn of the head, but also a turn of the whole body. So I tell my clients that your shoulder should point to the sky and your hip needs to point to the sky; once you master that rotation you will establish more space to breathe. To see this in action, check out my freestyle drill video on this site.

4. Always bring a bottle of water to the pool!

5. The only thing you need to get better is yourself. i see many swimmers with a bag of equipment. Equipment is a great addition to any workout, but you can make improvements without purchasing any special equipment.

Getting back on the Grind!

Hello and greetings to all my subscribers and Swimphilly family. I need to apologize for my break from blogs and newsletters. The reason was my job status changed, and notoriously busy summer swim lesson season, but i do have good news to report. I am working a full-time job as a general education teacher, but I am also happily busy giving lessons to a variety of clients. This is the most clients I have had at this time of year, so it is enjoyable and exciting. However, due to the volume of work this year me of work i have in other areas I'm going to bump back my newsletter and blog to twice a month. My goal is to publish blogs on the second and fourth Friday of each month. I think that this is a fair and doable a goal

As you all know, I’m’ an avid triathlete, but due to the workload, I haven’t signed up for any races or competition. I do continue to swim every week with some of my more competitive clients. Maybe i will try to signup for something simple like a half marathon but only time will tell. I do have a few goals I would like to try and complete, but only time will tell if I complete them.

Other than that you can keep up with me and my swim adventures at swimphilly.com, and on Instagram at swimphilly_ . if you know anyone in the Philly area looking for swim lessons tell them to email me at swimphilly@gmail.com